Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan reported observing what he described as "dozens of large drones" flying over his Davidsonville residence on Thursday evening. The sighting, which he documented with video footage, lasted approximately 45 minutes and occurred just 25 miles from the nation's capital.
While uncertain about the nature of the drones and whether they constitute a security threat, Hogan expressed concern over the federal government's response, criticizing the lack of transparency and the absence of clear answers for a worried public. He questioned the government's ability to track the drones' origin and demanded immediate action and clarification.
Hogan's two-minute video, while difficult to decipher, sparked online speculation, with some suggesting the objects might be the constellation Orion. This incident coincides with a series of unexplained drone sightings across New Jersey, New York City, and even US airbases in the UK, raising public alarm and prompting calls for a more robust government response.
These sightings have fueled frustration among residents, some even threatening to take matters into their own hands. Political figures like Senator Cory Booker have also voiced their frustration, demanding greater transparency and information sharing with the public. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has requested federal assistance and urged Congress to grant local authorities more power to address drone activity, highlighting the limitations of current state and local laws.
The FAA is actively investigating these reports and has implemented a temporary flight restriction around Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster. They emphasized potential penalties for unsafe drone operation, including substantial fines and the revocation of pilot certificates.
