Long Island authorities approved to shoot down mystery drones
Long Island authorities have received the greenlight from Nassau County as of Thursday, Dec. 19, to shoot down mysterious drones that may pose a threat. Officials say that they are not waiting for disaster to strike before taking action.
The authorization came as the county showed off a new cutting-edge drone command center. The technology reportedly allows authorities to track drones from miles away and can intercept and take down aircraft posing a threat, but it still needs approval from the U.S. federal government.
As they await permission, county officials sayid they’re taking preemptive action against any possible threats. When asked if the authorization violates federal law, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman responded.
“No, no, we have the ability to stop a crime that could result in tremendous loss of life or tremendous loss of property damage,” Blakeman said. “We have that right. It’s not something that’s exclusive to drones. It would be with respect to, if we had to takedown a truck that was full of explosives.”
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said his officers are willing and ready to shoot, noting the department’s “world-renowned snipers.”
Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-N.Y., said the overflight restriction includes some of New York’s “critical infrastructure sites,” though she added there are currently “no threats to these sites.”
The FAA’s nearly monthlong ban allows for “deadly force” to be used to bring the drones down. While the White House has downplayed the drones as a non-threat to public safety, speculation is running wild.
A New Jersey mayor has claimed that the drones are sniffing out radioactive material, and a U.S. lawmaker raised concerns that they could be from an “Iranian mothership.” Others have suggested the sightings could be coming from space.
Ryder said he wants to use the new tracking tech to not just track drones but to shoot them down as well. In the meantime, he’s not waiting on the new technology.
“We have to do whatever means necessary to protect the people this county and we have been given that authorization,” Ryder said.
Government shutdown looms as House votes against latest funding bill
A government shutdown looms nearer after the House rejected a bill that would have kept it funded into March. And drones are now banned in parts of New York and New Jersey after a spate of mysterious sightings. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Friday, Dec. 20, 2024.
House votes against latest stopgap bill aimed to avoid government shutdown
The House rejected a stopgap bill Thursday, Dec. 19, that would have kept the government running. The vote came ahead of a potential shutdown starting at midnight Saturday, Dec. 21, when lawmakers head home for the holidays.
The bill fell short of the needed two-thirds majority to speed up its passage. More than three dozen Republicans joined 197 Democrats in voting against it. Republicans split with each other on how the bill handles government spending.
“Three hundred and thirty billion dollars. Congratulations. You’ve added to the debt since you were given the majority again on Nov. 5,” Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, said.
Roy voted against the bill.
He added, “It’s embarrassing. It’s shameful. Yes, I think this bill is better than it was yesterday in certain respects. But to take this bill, to take this bill yesterday and congratulate yourself because it’s shorter in pages but increases the debt by $5 trillion, is asinine.”
Meanwhile, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., said on the House floor, “The deal on the table will keep the government open for the American people and if you guys so choose to shut it down, it will be on you but not the Republican Party.”
She added, “We will not be going back to the table. This deal stands as it is. So let you go back home on Christmas and explain to your people why you shut down the government because we won’t be doing it.”
The latest spending bill, known as a continuing resolution, is a quickly amended bill tailored to the liking of President-elect Donald Trump and his top ally Elon Musk.
Musk postedrepeatedlyonX condemning the original bill. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., worked on it with bipartisan support from Republicans and Democrats.
However, when both Musk and Trump opposed the bill, that guaranteed most House Republicans would vote against it and forced Johnson to craft a new bill.
Now, there are two conflicting interests. Musk wants major government spending cuts, and while Trump agrees, he also wants to permanently suspend the debt ceiling.
The new plan lifts the debt limit, leading Trump to support the bill in a Truth Social post.
“Now we can Make America Great Again, very quickly, which is what the People gave us a mandate to accomplish,” Trump posted.
But Democrats attacked the bill over what spending Republicans chose to cut.
“The Musk-Johnson proposal is not serious, it’s laughable,” said House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y. “Extreme MAGA Republicans are driving us to a government shutdown.”
The bill removed funding for a bipartisan program for pediatric cancer research, studying genetic conditions like Down syndrome and treatment options for sickle cell disease as well as cancers.
It will be on Johnson to craft a bill to secure votes from the majority of the House.
However, Johnson may not have the political leeway to rely on support from Democrats. He’ll need nearly every returning member of the House Republican caucus to vote for him next month to remain speaker.
The new Congress takes office in the new year.
New details of accused UnitedHealthcare CEO shooter’s plan emerge
Newly unsealed court documents put into perspective what led up to the deadly shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. A federal complaint shed light on 26-year-old Luigi Mangione’s “hostility toward the health insurance industry and wealthy executives in particular.”
In a notebook found on Mangione when he was arrested, he allegedly wrote of his plans to “wack” an insurance company CEO at its investor conference. Federal prosecutors said he traveled from Georgia to New York to stalk and kill Thompson.
Magione appeared in a New York courtroom Thursday, and four new federal charges were levied against him. The charges included murder with a firearm, which is an offense punishable by the death penalty.
The hearing followed Mangione’s extradition from Pennsylvania, where police arrested him on Dec. 9, to New York.
Armed guards surrounded Mangione as NYPD officers walked him off a helicopter upon his arrival in Manhattan. New York City Mayor Eric Adams joined the walk.
“Police Commissioner [Jessica] Tisch and I all want to send a very clear and loud message that this act of terrorism and the violence that stems from it is something that will not be tolerated in this city,” Adams told the press at the site of the helicopter arrival.
Mangione already faces state-level charges in New York. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg brought charges against him Tuesday, Dec. 17, including for murder as an act of terrorism.
However, Mangione also received a hero’s welcome from protesters outside the courthouse. Thompson’s killing sparked backlash against the health insurance industry and its coverage policies.
While judges have not set any dates yet, Mangione will face state-level charges first. A federal trial will follow.
New York abolished the death penalty, meaning it’s not an option for Mangione in the state-level case. However, the death penalty can still be exercised in the federal case.
FAA temporarily bans drones in parts of New York and New Jersey
Drones are now banned in parts of New York and New Jersey — at least for the time being. It comes amid an investigation into multiple mysterious sightings over the last month that set off fear and speculation.
In a statement, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the Federal Aviation Administration’s bans are “purely precautionary.” Meanwhile, the FAA’s restrictions in New Jersey are largely aimed at limiting drone flights over power stations and infrastructure.
The FAA implemented emergency flight restrictions across New Jersey, prohibiting drone operations until Jan. 17, 2025, for “special security reasons.” Unless operators obtain special government clearance, the directive bans uncrewed aircraft within a one-nautical-mile radius of designated areas and up to 400 feet in altitude.
The FAA designated areas such as Camden, Jersey City, Elizabeth and South Brunswick as “National Defense Airspace.”
Violators may face severe penalties, including interception, detention, certificate revocation and potential criminal charges. In extreme cases, authorities are authorized to use “deadly force” against drones posing an “imminent security threat.”
These restrictions follow a surge in unexplained drone sightings across New Jersey and nearby states that began in mid-November. Federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Defense (DOD), received over 5,000 reports of drone activity.
Dow Jones snaps worst losing streak in 50 years
The Dow Jones Industrial Average snapped its worst losing streak in 50 years Thursday. The losing streak lasted 10 days.
During the losing streak, the market wiped out all of its post-election gains. The Dow ended Wednesday down 2.5% from when Trump won the election.
Also on Wednesday, Wall Street’s fear gauge, the CBOE Volatility Index, had its second-biggest percentage spike in history. The VIX shot up 74% after the Federal Reserve shared its outlook for the coming year.
On Wednesday, the Fed cut its benchmark interest rate for a third time in 2024, which was widely predicted.
Feeling the holiday blues?
The holidays are often called “the most wonderful time of the year,” but the season can bring about sadness and stress for many. This -emotional shift, commonly known as the “holiday blues” or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), can affect millions of people across the country.
Licensed adult psychiatrist Dr. Patrice Mann said the holiday blues are due to several factors. They include social pressures, disruptive routines and financial strain.
“Things like having a bunch of holiday events on the calendar, not to say we don’t look forward to them oftentimes, but they take a toll on us,” says Dr. Mann. “You’re up late, interacting with a lot of people, and that’s not everyone’s nature.”
Grief and seasonal depression can also complicate these feelings. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, seasonal depression affects millions of Americans every year, but many may not even realize they have it.
Symptoms of holiday blues and seasonal depression can include a persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities and changes in eating or sleeping habits. If these symptoms last more than two weeks, Dr. Mann said it could indicate a more serious depressive episode. In such cases, seeking professional help is important.
Dr. Mann recommended several self-care strategies to help manage both the holiday blues and seasonal depression. She suggested getting tested for vitamin D deficiency and taking supplements during winter. Vitamin D plays a vital role in mood and energy levels.
She also advised getting as much sunlight as possible during the shorter winter days. Light therapy boxes can mimic outdoor sunlight if natural sunlight isn’t available. Using them for 20 to 30 minutes in the morning can help trick the brain and improve mood.
For those experiencing grief during the holidays, Dr. Mann encouraged reflecting on personal needs and communicating with trusted friends or family members. She also recommended incorporating new social activities into your routine and checking in with yourself after attending events.
For those supporting others through grief, it’s important to recognize that everyone processes emotions differently. Dr. Mann suggested engaging in activities with those less open about mental health, such as cooking or playing games, to help create a comfortable environment for them to express themselves.
While the holiday season brings unique challenges, small steps can make a big difference. Prioritizing self-care, maintaining routines and reaching out for support are important practices to help manage holiday stress.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that professional help is available. The National Suicide Hotline is available 24 hours a day by calling 988.
FAA enforces emergency drone ban across New Jersey
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented emergency flight restrictions across New Jersey, prohibiting drone operations until Jan. 17, 2025, for “special security reasons.” Unless operators obtain special government clearance, the directive bans uncrewed aircraft within a one-nautical-mile radius of designated areas and up to 400 feet in altitude.
The FAA designated areas such as Camden, Jersey City, Elizabeth and South Brunswick as “National Defense Airspace.”
Violators may face severe penalties, including interception, detention, certificate revocation and potential criminal charges. In extreme cases, authorities are authorized to use “deadly force” against drones posing an “imminent security threat.”
These restrictions follow a surge in unexplained drone sightings across New Jersey and nearby states that began in mid-November. Federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Defense (DOD), received over 5,000 reports of drone activity.
A joint statement indicated many sightings likely involve lawful drones, law enforcement operations or misidentified objects such as stars.
Still, officials remain vigilant.
Existing flight restrictions for Bedminster and Picatinny Arsenal remain active alongside the new measures.
Federal authorities continue to urge residents to report suspicious drone activity, emphasizing national security concerns.
The heightened restrictions come amid reports of mysterious drone activity near U.S. military bases, including facilities located near Chinese-owned farmland. California, Virginia, and Hawaii reported similar incidents, raising concerns about potential espionage and other security threats.
The New Jersey sightings and other national incidents are not linked, but the increasing frequency prompted agencies to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts.
Lawmakers demand answers as drone sightings grow in NJ, NY
Calls are growing for Homeland Security to take more action in identifying the drones reported night after night in New Jersey and New York. And ABC News has reached a multi-million-dollar settlement over comments its top political host made about President-elect Donald Trump.
These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Monday, Dec. 16, 2024.
Lawmakers demand answers as drone sightings grow in NJ, NY
As the number of drone sightings in New Jersey, New York and other parts of the eastern U.S. grows, so do the questions about their origins. Now, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are demanding answers.
For weeks, the drones were mostly seen in the Garden State, but are now appearing elsewhere. U.S. security officials said the drones don’t appear to be the work of a foreign adversary and should not be considered a public safety threat. However, the drones are still causing concern.
On Sunday, Dec. 15, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D, called for the Department of Homeland Security to do more to deal with the drones, including deploying drone-tracking technology to identify them and their operators.
“It’s not a bird, it’s not a plane, it’s a drone,” Schumer said. “And when it comes to drones, people in the New York area and all across the country, have more questions than answers. The question is: why haven’t the federal authorities detected them yet? But now we’re pushing them to get this done quickly because it’s been too long where there have been no answers.”
Speaking on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas confirmed the federal government has deployed additional resources, personnel and technology to assist New Jersey State Police in addressing the drone sightings. He echoed statements from federal agencies during a Saturday, Dec. 14, press call that other aircraft are being mistaken for drones.
“Some of those drone sightings are, in fact, drones, some are manned aircraft that are commonly mistaken for drones and we do see duplicative reporting but there’s no question drones are being sighted,” Mayorkas said.
Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to be national security adviser, told CBS News the lack of answers shows a lapse in authority between local law enforcement and federal agencies.
“I think Americans are finding it hard to believe we can’t figure out where these are coming from,” Waltz said. “I could tell you from the Defense Department standpoint, they’re focused on bombers and cruise missiles and it’s pointing to gaps in our capabilities and in our ability to clamp down on what’s going on here and we need to get to the bottom of it and I think the Biden administration is working to do that.”
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the federal government has agreed to deploy state-of-the-art drone detection systems in the state after a drone caused Stewart International Airport in West Windsor to shut down for an hour Friday night, Dec. 13.
Meanwhile in Boston, two men were arrested over the weekend for allegedly flying a drone too close to Logan International Airport. A third man is still being sought.
ABC, Stephanopoulos to pay $15M and apologize in Trump defamation suit
ABC News and its top political host, George Stephanopoulos, reached a settlement with President-elect Trump in a defamation suit. Details of the settlement were released Saturday, Dec. 14.
The lawsuit pertained to comments Stephanopoulos repeatedly made on his Sunday show “This Week” about the E. Jean Carroll lawsuit, in which Stephanopoulos said Trump was “found liable for rape.” Last year, a civil jury ruled Trump sexually abused and defamed Carroll but found Trump not liable for rape.
ABC News agreed to contribute $15 million toward Trump’s future presidential library and the network must issue a public apology, which will appear as an editor’s note on its website.
Also Saturday, the president-elect attended the 125th annual Army-Navy football game. He was joined by allies, including Vice President-elect JD Vance, defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, his pick for director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Marine veteran Daniel Penny, who was acquitted of negligent homicide charges last week, also joined the group as Vance’s personal guest.
Biden tells Democrats to ‘stay engaged’ at DNC holiday reception
In Washington on Sunday, Dec. 15, President Joe Biden urged Democrats to “stay engaged” as he and Vice President Kamala Harris made an appearance at the Democratic National Convention’s holiday reception. They both thanked party members for all they did for Harris’ presidential campaign effort and Biden’s presidency over the past four years.
Biden highlighted some of what he said were his administration’s biggest accomplishments, including the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill and the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, which aimed to boost semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S.
“The one thing I’ve always believed about public service, and especially about the presidency, is the importance of asking yourself, ‘Have we left the country in better shape than we found it?’” Biden said. “Today, I can say with every fiber of my being, with all my heart, the answer to that question is a resounding, ‘Yes. Yes!’”
Biden also said he intends to remain engaged with party politics once he leaves office in January. He also predicted Harris would remain a central figure in the party’s future.
South Korean court to decide president’s fate over martial law attempt
South Korea’s constitutional court has begun reviewing the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over his martial law attempt. The court is set to hold its first public hearing on Dec. 27 and has up to six months to decide whether to remove Yoon from office or to reinstate him.
Meanwhile, a joint team of investigators from the police, the defense ministry and an anti-corruption agency are planning to call Yoon in for questioning Wednesday, Dec. 18. On Monday, Dec. 16, the team tried to issue a summons for his appearance to officials at Yoon’s office and residence, but they refused to accept it.
‘Kraven’ stumbles at the box office with lowest debut for Sony-Marvel movie
It was anything but a marvelous debut for the latest superhero movie from Sony. “Kraven the Hunter” brought in $11 million in its opening weekend, making it the worst of any Sony’s Marvel superhero films, behind February’s “Madame Web,” which earned $15.3 million.
“Kraven” came in at No. 3 at the box office behind blockbusters “Moana 2” and “Wicked.”
However, this is not the end of the line for Sony’s Marvel movies as another animated Spiderverse picture is in production and a fourth Spider-Man film starring Tom Holland is set to begin filming next year. That one is in partnership with Marvel Studios.
Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter wins Heisman trophy
In case you missed it over the weekend; college football history was made at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York. Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter won the 90th Heisman trophy Saturday night, Dec. 14.
In doing so, the 21-year-old wide receiver and cornerback under Coach Deione Sanders became only the second Buffaloes player and the second full-time defensive player ever to claim the prize. It also marked only the fifth time this century a quarterback did not win.
In addition to the Heisman, last week Hunter became the first player in history to win the Bednarik Award for best defensive player in the country and the Biletnikoff Award for the best receiver. He was also named AP College Football Player of the Year.
Next up, Colorado is headed to the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 28. Hunter has pledged to play the game before he’s expected to become a top pick in the upcoming NFL draft.
“They should be shot down if necessary,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said. “We should be doing some very urgent intelligence analysis and take them out of the skies, especially if they’re flying over airports or military bases.”
“If you don’t know whose it is and who’s flying it, you have to take it down,” Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., told CBS News.
Lawmakers are concerned the drones could be a threat to national security.
There are multiple sensitive locations in New Jersey, including Joint Base McQuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Naval Weapons Station Earle. The naval station provides guns, artillery and explosives for the entire Atlantic fleet carrier and expeditionary strike groups.
When Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., was asked about shooting the drones down, he said “safety first.”
“You’re over populous neighborhoods and areas. New Jersey –– I don’t know if you know this –– is the most densely populated state in America because everybody wants to live there,” Booker told reporters. “The most important thing right now is the safety and security of our communities, but we should know what’s going on.”
All four senators from New Jersey and New York sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, FBI and Federal Aviation Administration requesting a briefing on the drones.
The letter stated, “The potential safety and security risks posed by these drones in civilian areas is especially pertinent considering recent drone incursions at sensitive military sites in and outside of the continental United States over the past year.”
“The public should have good information, especially on a subject that is understandably concerning for people and also a subject matter in which misinformation can spread a lot,” Booker said.
The mystery drones are very difficult to track for multiple reasons –– they’re faster than drones used by local law enforcement and they go dark when under surveillance.
Pentagon says ‘Iranian mothership’ is not behind mysterious drones
As questions swirl over the dozens of drone sightings in New Jersey and other locations along the East Coast, the Pentagon has shot down one theory circulating at the Capitol. During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing Wednesday, Dec. 11, New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew criticized the Federal Aviation Administration for not taking action, before giving his opinion on what’s going on in the skies.
“I’ve learned for real that there is circumstantial evidence that there is an Iranian mothership off the east coast of the United States and that’s launching these drone incursions,” Van Drew said. “They are from high, good sources, individuals who are reputable, individuals who speak with authority unfortunately are concerned with identifying who they are at this point, who are saying this, but this is true. It’s unacceptable and it’s frightening and our government has to act.”
Later in the day, Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh was asked about Van Drew’s claims.
“There is not any truth to that,” she said. “There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States, and there’s no so-called ‘mothership’ launching drones towards the United States.”
Singh said there is no evidence that the drone activity is coming from a foreign entity or is the work of an adversary. She said the Pentagon will continue to monitor the situation.
Our Ray Bogan spoke with New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, R, who requested U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin provide a state military base with the tools it needs to take down the mystery drones. Watch Ray’s report here.
Trump says Wray resigning as FBI director is ‘a great day for America’
President-elect Donald Trump reacts to Christopher Wray’s resignation announcement. And the Pentagon responds to claims that an “Iranian mothership” is behind the mysterious drones over New Jersey. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024.
Trump says Wray resigning as FBI director is ‘a great day for America’
The dust is still settling at the top of the FBI after Director Christopher Wray announced on Wednesday, Dec. 11, he would be resigning at the end of the Biden administration. This paves the way for President-elect Donald Trump to pick his director. Wray, who was nominated by Trump during his first administration, still had three years remaining on his 10-year term.
Earlier this month, Trump announced he would nominate Kash Patel to lead the bureau, leaving Wray with two options: resign or get fired. During a town hall with FBI employees, Wray said although leaving isn’t easy, it’s the right thing to do for the bureau and for Americans.
“This is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work,” Wray said.
Reacting to the news on Truth Social, Trump called Wray’s resignation “a great day for America,” saying it “will end the weaponization” of the FBI. He said the agency “illegally raided my home, without cause, worked diligently on illegally impeaching and indicting me, and has done everything else to interfere with the success and future of America.”
Wray took the helm in 2017 when Trump appointed him, receiving an overwhelming confirmation by U.S. lawmakers. His leadership came on the heels of the former director’s investigation into Trump associates and their connection to Russia’s interference during the 2016 presidential election.
Distance grew between the former president and Wray when the FBI conducted searches of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in order to recover classified documents. That warrant and what agents recovered led to Trump’s federal indictment on several criminal charges.
Under Wray’s watch, the FBI also launched an investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol, ending up with more than 1,500 people accused of breaking the law.
In a recent sit-down interview with NBC News, Trump said he’s unhappy with Wray and crime levels in the U.S. and vowed to fire the director once in office.
Rumors about Wray’s tenure preceded Wednesday’s announcement as incoming Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley questioned his leadership. The Iowa senator released a letter criticizing how the FBI has handled things like congressional oversight cases, sexual harassment claims by female FBI employees and the Afghanistan withdrawal.
The Justice Department released a statement from Attorney General Merrick Garland on Wednesday following the announcement praising Wray’s efforts and his ability to keep America safe. Garland said Wray has “led the FBI’s efforts to aggressively confront the broad range of threats facing our country — from nation-state adversaries and foreign and domestic terrorism to violent crime, cybercrime, and financial crime.”
Republican South Dakota Sen. Mike Rounds also expressed support for Wray and had no complaints about how he led the FBI. Rounds said the former president picked a good man to lead the FBI during his first term.
The bureau’s deputy director, Paul Abbate could take over the FBI while a permanent director is confirmed by the Senate once Trump is officially sworn into office.
Meta donates $1 million to Trump’s inaugural fund
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, confirmed Wednesday night it donated $1 million to President-elect Trump’s inaugural fund. It comes two weeks after CEO Mark Zuckerberg had a private meeting with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate in South Florida.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸 Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg donates $1,000,000 to President-elect Trump's inaugural fund. pic.twitter.com/GcC3PF4sp2
The move is a major reversal from nearly four years ago when Meta banned Trump from its platforms after the Jan. 6 Capitol riots.
During his 2024 campaign, Trump labeled Facebook an “enemy of the people” in a March interview with CNBC. He also threatened to punish Zuckerberg if he tried to influence the election against him.
House passes defense bill banning gender-affirming care for trans children
The House passed a critical defense policy bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act, with a controversial caveat on Wednesday.
The $895 billion measure includes a ban on gender-affirming care for trans children under TRICARE, the military’s health insurance program. That means TRICARE will not cover puberty blockers and hormone therapy for children of service members.
While past attempts to include the ban in the NDAA have failed, this one was overshadowed by bipartisan provisions including a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members.
Wednesday’s vote was 281-140, with 124 Democrats and 16 Republicans voting against the legislation. The bill now heads to the Senate for approval.
Pentagon says ‘Iranian mothership’ is not behind mysterious drones
As questions swirl over the dozens of drone sightings in New Jersey and other locations along the East Coast, the Pentagon has shot down one theory circulating at the Capitol. During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing Wednesday, New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew criticized the Federal Aviation Administration for not taking action, before giving his opinion on what’s going on in the skies.
What we’ve uncovered is alarming—drones flying in from the direction of the ocean, possibly linked to a missing Iranian mothership.
This is a national security crisis we cannot ignore.
“I’ve learned for real that there is circumstantial evidence that there is an Iranian mothership off the east coast of the United States and that’s launching these drone incursions,” Van Drew said. “They are from high, good sources, individuals who are reputable, individuals who speak with authority unfortunately are concerned with identifying who they are at this point, who are saying this, but this is true. It’s unacceptable and it’s frightening and our government has to act.”
“There is not any truth to that,” she said. “There is no Iranian ship off the coast of the United States, and there’s no so-called ‘mothership’ launching drones towards the United States.”
Singh said there is no evidence that the drone activity is coming from a foreign entity or is the work of an adversary. She said the Pentagon will continue to monitor the situation.
Our Ray Bogan spoke with New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, R, who requested U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin provide a state military base with the tools it needs to take down the mystery drones. Watch Ray’s report here.
Missing Hawaii woman Hannah Kobayashifound safe
Family members say Hannah Kobayashi, the Hawaii woman who’d been at the center of a missing persons investigation in California, has been found safe.
Police in Los Angeles stopped looking for her on Dec. 2, saying she traveled to Mexico to “disconnect” and reclassified her case as one of a “voluntary missing person.” On Wednesday, the 30-year-old’s mother and sister put out a statement saying she had been found safe but did not say where.
Relatives reported her missing on Nov. 13, after she failed to get on a connecting flight from L.A. to New York City on the 8th. Police later said they found video of her crossing into Mexico via the San Diego land port at Tijuana a few days after her missed flight.
During the search for the missing woman, her family suffered a tragedy as Kobayashi’s father, who traveled from Hawaii to Los Angeles to join the search party, took his own life. The family said he died of “a broken heart.”
UNC officially names Bill Belichick as next head coach
Belichick coached the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2023, creating a dynasty alongside quarterback Tom Brady. Belichick currently sits at No. 2 on the NFL all-time coaching wins list with 333, behind Don Shula’s 347 victories.
Belichick’s five-year deal with UNC is pending approval by the board of trustees, which is set to hold an emergency meeting Thursday, Dec. 12.
Mystery drone sightings: New Jersey requests assistance from Pentagon
New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, R, requested U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin provide a state military base with the tools it needs to take down mystery drones spotted across the Garden State. Authorities spotted unmanned aerial systems by the dozen over sensitive security locations and critical infrastructure.
“This is a national security issue of the highest order and people need to have their concerns, which are very well founded, and I have them too, allayed,” Smith told Straight Arrow News.
Between 12 and 30 drones followed a 47-foot Coast Guard ship while running near Barnegat inlet, Smith said.
“Don’t tell me that’s not some kind of intimidation,” he added.
Smith asks Pentagon for help
Smith wrote a letter to Austin, requesting his assistance.
“I urgently request all capabilities possessed by the Department of Defense, especially those in use by Joint Base McQuire-Dix-Lakehurst to be immediately deployed to identify and address the potential threats posed by UAS over the state of New Jersey.”
New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith in a letter to U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst can identify and take down unauthorized drones, but the base commander told Smith he doesn’t have the authority to do so.
Federal government remains silent
Smith expressed disappointment toward the federal government for the lack of response. He said the U.S. Coast Guard told him they do not have any rules of engagement for the encounters.
The Department of Homeland Security is failing to do its job, Smith said.
The New Jersey lawmaker spoke with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), but the organization was unable to explain.
National security a top concern
Lawmakers at the state and federal level are concerned the drones could be a threat to national security.
There are multiple sensitive locations in New Jersey, including Joint Base McQuire-Dix and Naval Weapons Stations Earle. The naval station provides guns, artillery and explosives for the Atlantic fleet carrier and expeditionary strike groups.
Smith said the federal government shouldn’t ignore these mystery drone sightings, especially amid ongoing threats from China, Russia, Iran and other Middle Eastern countries.
“Drones are the method of modern warfare,” Smith said. “It’s the game changer.”
A New Jersey state senator called for a limited state of emergency that would ban all drones until the public receives an explanation.
Roy Rogers restaurant chain bets on ‘Yellowstone’ to help boost sales
Roy Rogers, a restaurant famous for its burgers, fried chicken and roast beef sandwiches, is making a comeback with a new location in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. The chain hopes its appeal to Western nostalgia will attract more customers drawn to the ongoing popularity of the Western drama series “Yellowstone.”
Roy Rogers Expands in the Northeast
Roy Rogers was founded in 1968 and has long been known for its Wild West-inspired decor. The chain has become a staple in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States, but it’s been trying to modernize.
With “Yellowstone” drawing massive attention to Western culture, the company hopes to capitalize on the resurgence of cowboy imagery.
Co-President Jim Plamondon shared the news with NJ Advance Media. He said the brand received a “tremendous number of requests” for a new location in the Cherry Hill area.
‘Yellowstone’ Drives Western Resurgence
The hit series “Yellowstone” has played a significant role in revitalizing interest in Western culture. The show doesn’t directly mention Roy Rogers by name. Still, the co-president of Roy Rogers sees it as an opportunity to ride the wave of Western pop culture.
“Cowboys are cool,” Plamondon told NJ Advance Media.
“Yellowstone” has sparked a renewed interest in cowboy life, and Roy Rogers is ready to embrace the buzz. Just as movies and TV shows have historically influenced consumer behavior, the brand hopes to see the same effect with its new stores.
Cultural Influence on Consumer Habits
Shows and movies often influence consumer habits. In 2017, a managing editor at Yahoo Finance reported that sales of Eggo waffles spiked 14%. The spike came after the popular Netflix series “Stranger Things” featured the breakfast food.
More recently, the Apple TV+ show “Ted Lasso” helped popularize biscuits after a scene where the main character tries to win over a soccer team owner with his famous biscuit recipe.
A 2023 report from BENlabs found that 63% of consumers felt positive emotions when they saw brands featured on TV shows. Roy Rogers hopes to tap into this same trend by riding the cultural wave created by “Yellowstone.”
While the show doesn’t specifically mention Roy Rogers, the show’s success is proof that Western culture is still of interest to modern audiences.
Mystery drone sightings: 21 New Jersey mayors call for governor to investigate
Dozens of unidentified drones spotted in central and northern New Jersey are raising concerns among state lawmakers. At least 21 mayors are calling on New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy to launch a state investigation into their origins.
In a letter, the mayors demanded that the investigation’s findings be released to state and local officials and residents.
Murphy responded to the letter on Monday, Dec. 9, telling Fox News his plan to address the mysterious drone sightings.
Murphy said he’s been working with the White House and Homeland Security to get “answers sooner rather than later.” He acknowledged residents’ frustration about the lack of answers.
The governor noted there were 49 drone sightings on Sunday, Dec. 8, and admitted he doesn’t have much in the way of answers. He said that, to his knowledge, the drones are “highly sophisticated” and “the minute you get eyes on them, they go dark.”
Murphy stressed that there is no danger to the public. However, he pleaded for more help from federal agencies to uncover the mystery behind the sightings.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently investigating the drone sightings and has asked residents for help by video and reporting any drones they spot.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented drone flight restrictions as the probe continues.
Drones are legal in New Jersey and often used by hobbyists. However, the aircraft spotted in most cases across the state by residents are reportedly larger than those drones used for recreation.
