Why wasn’t Trump at NYC 9/11 memorial? His ‘corrupt’ claim over Ground Zero absence explained
President Donald Trump marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks at the Pentagon on Friday instead of joining the Ground Zero ceremony in New York City. Vice President JD Vance attended the New York event with former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
Trump marked 9/11 at the Pentagon, while JD Vance joined former presidents in New York for the Ground Zero ceremony.. Photographer: Annabelle Gordon/UPI/Bloomberg (Bloomberg)Trump’s decision drew attention because he is a New York native and had attended the ceremony before. The New York Times reported that his wish to speak at the memorial was one reason he chose the Pentagon. Trump rejected that explanation and said he was asked to speak in Washington instead.
According to The New York Times, Trump had wanted to deliver remarks at the Ground Zero ceremony, but the annual event does not allow politicians or public officials to give speeches. That reportedly played a part in his decision to attend the Pentagon, where he was scheduled to speak.
Trump disputed that account on Truth Social. He wrote, “I’m not going to the World Trade Center, in New York City, because they won’t let me make a speech, and I’m going to the Pentagon in D.C., because I’m a featured speaker. This is more Corrupt News, I’ve been to New York many times over the years, and no one ever speaks, it’s a ‘solemn ceremony!’”
Also Read: What role did Saudi Arabia have in 9/11 attacks? Victim widow Terry Strada unleashes scathing criticism at NYC memorial
The White House had already confirmed that Trump would commemorate the anniversary at the Pentagon, while JD Vance would represent the administration in New York.
Sehjal Gupta is a Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times and is part of the US Desk. She covers a wide range of stories from the United States, including politics, sports, entertainment, breaking news, and major global developments. She enjoys working across different beats because every story brings a fresh perspective and an opportunity to explore something different. Before joining Hindustan Times, Sehjal was part of The Times of India, where she headed the International Sports and US Streamers team. She reported on international sports, athlete stories, streamer news, and major developments from around the world. The role gave her the opportunity to work on a diverse range of stories while leading coverage across two evolving news categories. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and believes the experience taught her the importance of staying organised, managing priorities, and adapting to new challenges. Over the years, she has reported on a variety of topics and enjoys taking on stories that keep her curious and encourage her to look beyond the obvious. Expertise: International news, International/US sports, and streamer coverage. Interests: Global affairs, geopolitics, politics, and entertainment. Outside work, Sehjal loves travelling, watching movies, and exploring new places to eat. She enjoys discovering new cultures and believes that some of the best stories and experiences come from stepping outside her comfort zone and exploring unfamiliar places.Read More
