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White House response in full as Trump refuses to attend 9/11 memorial after being denied permission to speak
The White House has hit back at claims that Donald Trump pulled out of the official memorial ceremony for the 9/11 terror attacks in New York City because he was refused the chance to speak.
This year’s event commemorates the 25th anniversary of the devastating assault on the United States, but according to initial reports, the US leader allegedly backed out of attending as he was not permitted to make a public address.
Event rules on political speaking
City officials allegedly believed that Trump was set to appear at the ceremony at the World Trade Center.
However, after organizers disclosed rules around prohibiting public speaking from political figures at the event, the Trump administration reportedly withdrew from its initial plans.
The National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum had implemented the rules on political addresses back in 2012, following matters concerning political discourse around the reconstruction of the site.
According to reports, Trump will now be attending a memorial event at the Pentagon in Virginia, another victim of the attacks 25 years ago, where he will deliver a speech.
White House issues indirect statement on claims
The White House responded with a statement without naming the claims: “As a proud New Yorker, President Trump has spoken about his own experiences watching the horrific events of September 11, 2001,” White House deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly claimed.
“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.”
Trump has also retorted, addressing the initial report that he wasn’t attending due to not being allowed to speak. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said: “the Fake Reporter from The Failing New York Times, an unattractive person both inside and out, and who knows less about me than most reporters on the beat (She’s a SCAMMER!)."
Trump continued: “She made up a story that on September 11th, I’m not going to the World Trade Center, in New York City, because they won’t let me make a speech, and I’m going to the Pentagon in D.C., because I’m a featured speaker.”
He added: “This is more Corrupt News, I’ve been to New York many times over the years, and no one ever speaks, it’s a 'solemn ceremony!'"
Trump said: "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."
Trump last attended the Ground Zero memorial service in 2024, during his second-term presidential campaign, although while serving as president, Trump has never appeared at the Ground Zero commemorations.