Trump to commemorate 9/11 at Pentagon, skipping Ground Zero
President Trump will deliver remarks at the Pentagon on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, rather than at Ground Zero in New York City. Vice President Vance is still scheduled to attend the NYC ceremony, with administration officials representing all three attack sites. Trump cited his choice to go to the Pentagon when asked why he would not be in New York.
Trump’s choice marks the second consecutive year he has commemorated the attacks at the Pentagon, where he will deliver remarks. Vice President Vance will attend the New York City ceremony, ensuring all three attack sites have administration representation. The New York Times reported Trump had interest in speaking at Ground Zero, but politicians have been barred from delivering remarks there since 2012. A planned trip to Ireland the following day was also cited as a factor. Both Trump and Vance attended the Ground Zero ceremony in 2024 alongside then-President Biden and Vice President Harris.
This decision may shape public perception of presidential priorities on a solemn national anniversary. By choosing the Pentagon over Ground Zero, Trump could reinforce his focus on military and defense communities, while New Yorkers and 9/11 families may feel less directly acknowledged. The absence of a presidential address at Ground Zero, though consistent with a long-standing rule, could influence how future administrations balance symbolic presence across attack sites. The event’s coverage may also affect political narratives ahead of upcoming elections.