A registered civilian balloon soaring at a high altitude over Montana sparked calls for increased government transparency from Representative Matt Rosendale. The balloon, operating within FAA regulations, was tracked by several Montanans, raising concerns reminiscent of the Chinese spy balloon incident earlier this year. Rosendale contacted the Department of Defense, who reportedly acknowledged awareness of the balloon but chose not to investigate due to its size and the perceived low surveillance risk. The FAA confirmed the balloon's civilian status and adherence to regulations, assuring the public that NORAD responds to suspicious or unknown objects. However, Rosendale emphasized the need for vigilance and transparency, referencing the previous spy balloon incident as a reminder of the importance of public awareness about objects in Montana's airspace. This incident comes months after the Chinese spy balloon traversed the United States, drawing criticism of the Biden administration's response. China asserted that the previous balloon was a civilian weather research craft that had veered off course.

An image showing the tracking of a balloon spotted over Montana.

Rep. Matt Rosendale criticized the government's handling of the balloon.