Congressional UFO Hearing with Lue Elizondo

The joint hearing of the House Subcommittees on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Government Innovation, and National Security; Border, and Foreign Affairs delved into the increasingly pressing issue of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). The hearing took place on Nov. 13th, 2024, was co-chaired by Representatives Mace and Grothman, and featured witness testimony from former NASA administrator Michael Gold, Pentagon insider Lue Elizondo, journalist Michael Shellenberger and Retired Navy Rear Adm. Tim Gallaudet.

The hearing focused on the lack of transparency surrounding UAPs from the Pentagon and other agencies, including the All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO). Witnesses revealed potential undisclosed UAP programs, including the alleged “Immaculate Constellation” program, and discussed the need for increased transparency and improved UAP reporting mechanisms, particularly for civilian pilots. Testimony included accounts of near-misses with UAPs, unexplained UAP capabilities, and potential national security implications. The hearing highlighted concerns about government disinformation campaigns, whistleblower retaliation, and the need for a whole-of-government approach to UAP investigation. Witnesses also discussed the possibility of non-human intelligence and advanced technologies, prompting calls for further investigation and declassification of relevant information. The hearing concluded with a renewed commitment to bipartisan cooperation in uncovering the truth about UAPs.

The Need for Transparency and Accountability:

The hearing’s central theme revolved around the lack of transparency surrounding government UAP programs. Witnesses repeatedly highlighted the Pentagon’s reluctance to declassify information, failed audits, and the overall struggle of the All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) to effectively address the issue. The secrecy surrounding AARO’s budget further fueled concerns about accountability and the public’s right to know how taxpayer money is being spent. Congress expressed its determination to uncover withheld information, emphasizing the public’s right to understand the government’s involvement in UAP investigations. The bipartisan nature of the hearing underscored the seriousness with which this issue is being taken.

Key Testimony and Revelations:

Several key revelations emerged from the testimony:

• Non-Human Intelligence: Multiple witnesses, including Colonel Karl Nell, suggested the possibility of non-human intelligence interacting with humanity. This assertion, while controversial, highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for thorough investigation.
• The “Immaculate Constellation” Program: A classified government program, referred to as “Immaculate Constellation,” was brought to light, raising questions about its purpose, funding, and the nature of the intelligence it gathers. Documents related to this program were entered into the congressional record.
• Whistleblower Concerns: The hearing highlighted the challenges faced by whistleblowers who attempt to expose information about UAPs. Witnesses described a culture of suppression and intimidation, including unwarranted investigations and credibility attacks. This underscores the need for a protected environment for individuals willing to come forward with potentially sensitive information.
• UAP Sightings Near Military Installations: Numerous UAP sightings near sensitive military installations, including nuclear sites, were reported. The frequency and proximity of these sightings raise significant national security concerns. The December 2022 drone swarm over Langley Air Force Base, described as 20ft long drones traveling over 100mph at altitudes exceeding 3000ft, served as a stark example of this concern.
• Lack of a Streamlined Reporting Process: The hearing revealed significant shortcomings in the Department of Defense’s (DoD) UAP reporting process. The lack of a clear and safe mechanism for civilian pilots to report UAP sightings was identified as a major obstacle to comprehensive data collection. The “Safe Airspace for Americans Act,” introduced to address this issue, received bipartisan support.
• Technological Capabilities: Witnesses described UAPs exhibiting flight characteristics far exceeding current human technology, including trans-medium travel and extreme G-forces. The potential implications of such advanced technology, whether of terrestrial or extraterrestrial origin, are profound.
• Oceanic UAPs: Testimony also included accounts of Unidentified Submerged Objects (USOs) exhibiting extraordinary speed and maneuverability, surpassing the capabilities of known submarines.

The Path Forward:

The hearing concluded with a renewed commitment to transparency and further investigation. Several legislative actions were discussed, including the UAP Transparency Act, aimed at declassifying all UAP-related documents. The establishment of a National UAP Records Collection within the National Archives, mandated by the 2024 NDAA, represents a significant step towards greater accountability. The hearing also highlighted the potential role of NASA in UAP research, particularly leveraging its expertise in data analysis and its Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRs) to improve civilian reporting.

The hearing served as a crucial step in bringing the UAP issue into the open. While many questions remain unanswered, the bipartisan commitment to transparency and further investigation offers a glimmer of hope for a more informed and comprehensive understanding of this enigmatic phenomenon. The ongoing debate underscores the need for a whole-of-government approach, collaboration between government agencies, scientists, and the public, and a commitment to protecting whistleblowers who risk their careers to bring the truth to light. The future of UAP investigation hinges on continued transparency, rigorous scientific inquiry, and a willingness to confront the unknown.