The U.S. Marks 9/11 Anniversary Amid Presidential Politics
On the solemn anniversary of September 11, the U.S. remembered the lives lost and those forever changed by the 2001 terrorist attacks. This year’s observance took on a particularly poignant tone as it brought President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and Vice President Kamala Harris together at Ground Zero, just a day after a major presidential debate. While the remembrance focused on the nearly 3,000 lives taken that day, the presence of political figures added a layer of complexity to the annual event.
A Historic Handshake at Ground Zero
President Biden and Trump exchanged handshakes during the ceremony, a rare moment of unity between the two political rivals. Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg also played a crucial role in facilitating a handshake between Harris and Trump. The ceremony began with the tolling of a bell and a moment of silence, marking a somber reflection on the devastating attacks.
September 11: A Date that Echoes in the Presidential Campaign Season
Every four years, the 9/11 anniversary falls amid a presidential campaign. It came at an especially pivotal time this year, just hours after Biden, Harris, and Trump shared the debate stage. Both Democratic and Republican contenders stood a few feet apart during the observance at the World Trade Center site. Still, the focus of the day remained on remembering the victims.
Victims’ families, like Cathy Naughton, who lost her cousin Michael Roberts, one of the firefighters killed, emphasized the raw emotions that remain after 23 years. “It’s just so raw,” Naughton said, reinforcing the desire to keep the focus on honoring the memory of those who perished.
The Lasting Legacy of 9/11
Despite the political backdrop, organizers of the anniversary ceremonies have long worked to keep the focus on the victims and their families. For years, politicians have been observers, while the task of reading victims’ names has been reserved for their relatives. This tradition underscores the lasting legacy of 9/11, which continues to influence U.S. foreign policy and domestic security. As Korryn Bishop, whose cousin died in the attacks, expressed, “If politicians care about what’s actually going on, great. Be here. If they’re just here for political clout, that upsets me.”
The day continued with President Biden and Harris heading to ceremonies in Pennsylvania and the Pentagon, the other sites where commercial jets crashed after being hijacked by al-Qaida operatives. Trump was also expected to attend the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where the plane that went down was believed to be headed toward Washington, D.C.
A Global Ripple Effect
The attacks of 9/11 left an indelible mark on U.S. history and reshaped global geopolitics. The response, led by the U.S., included the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, part of a broader “Global War on Terrorism.” This war, which aimed to combat terrorist organizations worldwide, led to significant changes in U.S. foreign policy and military operations. These conflicts have since claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands, including both civilians and American troops, and Afghanistan became the site of America’s longest war.
The impact of 9/11 has spanned generations, influencing U.S. foreign policy and domestic security. Annual ceremonies, such as wreath-laying, flag displays, and volunteer projects, are observed nationwide to honor the lives lost and reflect on the national tragedy.
The Importance of Remembrance
Ground Zero’s commemorations have evolved over time, with the National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum limiting the ceremony to reading victims’ names in 2012. This decision, led by Bloomberg, ensured the focus would remain on those most directly affected by the attacks.
As the years have passed, many who read the names today are children and young adults who lost parents, grandparents, aunts, or uncles in the tragedy. Their tributes serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of 9/11 and the importance of ensuring future generations continue to remember that day.
While the presence of prominent political figures may add layers of complexity to the anniversary, for most, 9/11 remains a day of collective grief and solemn reflection. As Cathy Naughton noted, “We want to make sure people remember always… and never forget.”