Donald Trump’s denial of skipping Ground Zero took a sharp turn when he singled out a prominent journalist. The president responded to reports about his 9/11 plans with a personal attack on the New York Times reporter behind the story.
Donald Trump denied reporting that a speech dispute influenced his decision to skip Ground Zero
President Donald Trump denied reports that a speech dispute influenced his decision to skip Ground Zero on September 11. The New York Times reported that memorial planners reminded Trump’s team about the site’s no-politicians-speaking rule. Trump will instead mark the 25th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks at the Pentagon.
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum has barred politicians from speaking at Ground Zero since 2012. That decision followed political battles over the memorial’s construction that angered victims’ families. Families felt political issues were overshadowing the memory of those who died.
White House Spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement about Trump’s plans for the anniversary. “On the 25th anniversary of this tragic day, the President will remember those who were killed at the hands of evil terrorists, honor their loved ones, and pay tribute to the brave first responders who put their lives on the line to rescue their fellow Americans,” Kelly said. She added, “As a proud New Yorker, President Trump has spoken about his own experiences watching the horrific events of September 11, 2001.”
Vice President JD Vance will represent the White House at the New York City ceremony instead. Several notable politicians are expected to attend the 25th anniversary at Ground Zero. The expected attendees include former Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.
Trump and First Lady Melania Trump also marked the anniversary at the Pentagon last year. During those remarks, Trump praised first responders while also promoting his administration’s agenda. “Last year we were a dead country, now we have the hottest country anywhere in the world,” Trump said then.
Trump also plans to travel to his golf course in Doonbeg, Ireland, the following day. Departing from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland proves easier than leaving from tri-state area airports.
