Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets Chairwoman Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) opened a hearing focused on government transparency regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) and whistleblower protection. In her remarks, Luna criticized the federal government and intelligence agencies for a lack of openness about UAP research and disclosure.
Luna addressed concerns about national security threats posed by UAPs and called for greater acknowledgment from federal authorities. She stated, “For too long, the issue of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena – commonly known as UAPs – has been shrouded in secrecy, stigma, and in some cases outright dismissal.”
She emphasized that the hearing was not about speculation but rather about “national security, government accountability, and the American people’s right to the truth.” Luna cited discussions with military whistleblowers who alleged fear of career repercussions if they spoke publicly about UAP incidents. She described this situation as “unacceptable,” arguing that silencing trained observers undermines both airspace protection and scientific progress.
Luna noted Congressional efforts to create formal reporting channels through offices such as the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) and the Intelligence Community Inspector General. However, she claimed these reports are often ignored or insufficiently investigated. She also referenced criticism from Chris Mellon, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, who called an AARO report “the most error-ridden and unsatisfactory government report I can recall reading during or after decades of government service.” Mellon argued that required congressional mandates were not met and that important agency input was omitted.
Luna said Congress has recently received evidence suggesting technologies beyond current capabilities may exist. She stressed Congress’s responsibility to investigate whether UAPs represent foreign technology or unknown phenomena requiring scientific inquiry.
The chairwoman warned against hiding information: “If we continue to shield the truth from the public, we risk eroding the very foundation of democratic accountability.” She described barriers faced by Congress in accessing classified materials related to UAP incidents due to Department of Defense special access program rules.
Luna concluded by citing statements from several elected officials supporting further investigation into UAPs. She urged transparency: “It is time for the fundamental truths around UAP to be revealed to our nation’s leaders and to the public.”
James Comer is currently serving in Congress representing Kentucky’s 1st district after replacing Ed Whitfield in 2016. He previously served in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 2001 to 2012. Comer was born in Carthage, Tennessee in 1972 and lives in Tompkinsville. He graduated from Western Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1993.
