NJ gov says feds have authority to shoot down drones, 'wouldn't be opposed’ to them playing ‘more robust role'

According to Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey, the federal government possesses the power to take down the unidentified drones spotted hovering over the state. He expressed his willingness for them to have a more active role in addressing the situation.

This statement was made in an interview with WNYC, as both the general public and legislators grapple with the mystery surrounding the origins of these large drones. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., disclosed to Fox News that a Coast Guard official informed him about a situation where their vessel was closely followed by over a dozen drones.

When asked if it would be plausible to shoot down one of the drones for a closer examination, Murphy responded by highlighting that the federal government holds the jurisdiction to do so. He expressed his openness to them taking a more active role in the investigation, indicating his support for such a measure.

“I want folks out there to know — listen, you’re frustrated. So are we. But… we’re going to stay at it, I promise you, this is our top priority. But based on everything we know, we don’t see any evidence of a risk to public safety. And clearly, and that’s largely based on the feds input. If that changes, we will shout it from the mountaintop,” Murphy also said. 

Drones in New Jersey

Multiple drones were seen over Bernardsville, N.J., on Dec. 5.  (Brian Glenn/TMX/AP)

Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., said Wednesday that “very qualified” and “reliable” sources believe the mystery drones flying over New Jersey are originating from an Iranian “mother ship” parked off the U.S. East Coast. 

However, Murphy called that a “wild assertion” and added “The last thing we need is fearmongering out of some members of Congress.” 

NJ Gov. Phil Murphy

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy speaks during a press conference in Newark in August. He said this week that “There’s some theories out there” and “we’ve been running everything down.” (AP/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

“There is some sense out there that we know more than we’re saying. I wish in some respects I could tell you the answer is yes, [but] we don’t. And I believe the feds. If this is a U.S. government activity, then I’ll be the most surprised guy in the state,” he concluded. 

Fox News’ Maria Paronich and Greg Wehner contributed to this report. 

You May Also Like
Dirt bikes, ATVs driven around World War II memorial in Washington, DC: video

“Watch as Dirt Bikes and ATVs Ride around the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC”

People on dirt bikes and ATVs were seen driving inside the World…
Karen Read jury selection: Dozens in pool already have an opinion on the case

“Karen Reviewing Jury Selection: Many Candidates Already Formed Opinions on the Case”

Jury selection began on Tuesday for the second trial of Karen Read,…
Karen Schepers case: Family thanks community for help in solving 1983 Elgin cold case: 'Miracles do happen'

The Schepers Family Expresses Gratitude to Community for Solving 1983 Elgin Cold Case

ELGIN, Ill. (WLS) — The family of Karen Schepers is speaking out…
California man to plead guilty to attempted assassination of Justice Kavanaugh

California Man Admits to Trying to Assassinate Justice Kavanaugh

The man accused of planning to murder Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh…
Speaker Johnson suffers a defeat in his push to block parents in the U.S. House from proxy voting

Speaker Johnson faces a setback in his attempt to prevent parents in the U.S. House from voting by proxy.

WASHINGTON — House Speaker Mike Johnson suffered a significant defeat on Tuesday…
The full truth about Elon Musk's DOGE exit revealed by White House insiders: Why Trump is 'highly disappointed'... and 'Ice Maiden' Susie Wiles's relentless vendetta

Insiders at the White House share details on Elon Musk’s departure from DOGE: Trump expresses deep disappointment, while Susie Wiles continues her relentless pursuit.

The White House is working aggressively to refute a shocking report claiming…
Val Kilmer, 'Top Gun' and Batman star with an intense approach, dies at 65

“Remembering Val Kilmer: Talented Actor Known for Intense Performances in ‘Top Gun’ and Batman Passes Away at 65”

Val Kilmer, the actor known for his roles as Iceman in “Top…
'Fake News': Karoline Leavitt Calls Report About Elon Musk 'Garbage'

Karoline Leavitt Dismisses Report on Elon Musk as ‘Fake News’

After examining the situation, I discovered that the information provided came from…
Leading Canadian conservative says Ottawa should remove all tariffs as 'Liberation Day' arrives

A prominent Canadian conservative suggests that Ottawa eliminate all tariffs as a way to celebrate ‘Liberation Day’.

In anticipation of President Donald Trump’s planned reciprocal tariffs labeled as “Liberation…
Kidney donor Jose Gregorio Gonzalez detained by ICE hopes to save brother Jose Alfredo Pacheco of Berwyn, Illinois

ICE detains kidney donor Jose Gregorio Gonzalez in hopes of saving his brother Jose Alfredo Pacheco in Berwyn, Illinois.

BERWYN, Ill. — A man with 100% kidney failure is fighting to…
Bonnie Blue reveals next eye-watering sex stunt... but it may be physically impossible to achieve

Bonnie Blue shares her latest jaw-dropping sexual feat… but it might be too challenging to actually do

Controversial OnlyFans sensation Bonnie Blue is getting ready to take on her…
Myanmar's military declares a ceasefire to ease quake relief as the death toll tops 3,000

The military in Myanmar announces a pause in fighting to help with earthquake relief efforts as the number of deaths exceeds 3,000

A temporary ceasefire was declared by Myanmar’s ruling military in the midst…