President Donald Trump, a native New Yorker, has decided not to travel to the World Trade Center for the 25th‑anniversary ceremony of the September 11 terrorist attacks. Instead, the administration plans for him to address the nation from the Pentagon, a site also scarred by the attacks on that fateful day.
Why the change?
Two sources briefed on the president’s schedule told CNN that Trump wanted the opportunity to speak publicly about the tragedy. Historically, the National September 11 Memorial and Museum has barred elected officials from delivering remarks at the New York ceremony to preserve its nonpartisan character, a policy in place since 2012. When Trump expressed his desire to speak, his team adjusted the itinerary accordingly.
What will happen at the Pentagon?
At the Pentagon, Trump is expected to honor the victims, their families, and the first‑responders who risked their lives on September 11, 2001. The White House spokesperson, Anna Kelly, said the president’s remarks 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.”
Trump has spoken at the Pentagon before, delivering a similar address on the 20th anniversary of the attacks in 2021. During that speech, he highlighted the enduring resolve of the American people and the need for continued vigilance against terrorism.
Vice President Vance attends the New York ceremony
While Trump will be in Washington, Vice President JD Vance will travel to New York City to attend the memorial ceremony at the World Trade Center. The ceremony will proceed as usual, featuring moments of silence, wreath‑laying, and reflections from families of the victims.
Broader context and upcoming travel
The decision to speak from the Pentagon also dovetails with the president’s upcoming trip to Ireland. After the anniversary events, Trump is scheduled to depart for Doonbeg, County Clare, on September 12 to attend the Irish Open golf tournament. The timing allows for a smoother transition between his Washington duties and the overseas engagement.
Trump’s attendance at past 9/11 commemorations has varied. He was present at the New York memorial in 2016 as the Republican presidential nominee and again in 2024 before his re‑election. As president during his first term, he also visited the Pentagon and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, for the 20th anniversary.
Reactions
Critics have pointed out that the president’s choice to speak from the Pentagon rather than the memorial site may be a political calculation, given the longstanding ban on political speeches at the New York venue. Supporters argue that the Pentagon address allows Trump to honor both the victims of the attacks and the military personnel who responded, reinforcing a message of national unity and resilience.
Regardless of the venue, the president’s remarks are expected to emphasize the enduring impact of the attacks on American families, the importance of remembering the fallen, and a call for continued vigilance against terrorism.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
