Instead of coming to New York on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, President Donald Trump is instead planning on staying close to the nation’s capital, honoring the victims of the terror attacks at the Pentagon that day while sending Vice President JD Vance to Lower Manhattan.
Trump attended the Pentagon ceremony last year, as well.
“As a proud New Yorker, President Trump has spoken about his own experiences watching the horrific events of September 11, 2001,” White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said. “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.”
The New York Times reported that President Trump is attending the Pentagon ceremony in part because he can speak there. Politicians since 2012 have been prevented from giving speeches at the World Trade Center event.
President Trump, on Truth Social, called it a “made up story.”
“I’ve been to New York many times over the years, and no one ever speaks, it’s a ‘solemn ceremony!’” Trump wrote. “I would love not to speak, because I’m speaking all the time, and this is a day to remember the victims, and their beautiful family members.”
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum, which organizes the World Trade Center Ceremony, features only family members reading the names of the people who died.
“Elected officials of both parties have borne witness to this solemn occasion over the years, and we have been honored that every living President, including President Trump, has attended. Of course, President Trump is always welcome,” the organization said in a statement.
Trump attended the 9/11 ceremony in Manhattan in 2016 and 2024.
Last year, after the Pentagon ceremony, Trump visited New York to attend the Yankees game at the Stadium.
