Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Drew Angerer
Former President Donald Trump’s behavior on the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks has provoked a significant backlash. The somber ceremony, held at Ground Zero in New York City, is traditionally a moment of solemn reflection and unity to honor the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
However, Trump’s demeanor, characterized by smiles, winks, and hand gestures, seemed incongruous with the gravity of the occasion, leading to widespread outrage among attendees and viewers. According to RawStory, footage shared by C-SPAN communications director Howard Mortman depicted Trump smiling at the crowd while the names of the victims were being read aloud.
What was meant to be a day of respectful commemoration quickly became overshadowed by Trump’s seemingly light-hearted behavior. One onlooker, visibly disappointed, shouted, “Where were you for 20 years I’ve been here? Where were you?” This remark referenced Trump’s absence from past ceremonies, including in 2021 when he chose not to attend despite the presence of three other former U.S. presidents, as reported by CNN.
Critics have been quick to label Trump’s actions as disrespectful. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, a Democrat, expressed his discontent on social media, stating, “I’ve been coming to the 9/11 memorial for years. It has always been totally solemn and apolitical, but this year Trump is here and there are people in the crowd screaming MAGA talking points.”
Former NBC Universal executive Mike Sington echoed similar sentiments on X, highlighting how Trump’s behavior during moments of silence was out of place compared to other dignitaries, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who bowed her head in quiet reflection. Sington wrote, “A moment of silence in honor of those lost on 9/11. Look at Trump.”
The most striking element of Trump’s behavior was its stark contrast to the seriousness of the event. Michael C. Bender of The New York Times noted, “As names of victims were read aloud, Trump, who had been mostly stone-faced in the presence of Biden and Harris, flashed smiles at the crowd and alternated between a thumbs-up and a pointed index finger before he gathered his entourage and headed for the exit.”
During the memorial, Trump was also seen shaking hands with Vice President Kamala Harris, as reported by CNN. Observers from across the political spectrum expressed their discomfort with Trump’s conduct. Pollster Geoff Garin bluntly questioned, “What’s wrong with Trump?” Podcaster and comedian Dana Goldberg expressed her bewilderment, stating, “This isn’t Trump after a debate or one of his rallies, it’s him at the 9/11 memorial winking at female photographers.
He’s weird and gross.” Another X user criticized, “Trump smiles and winks at the crowd at 9/11 memorial event like it’s a celebration. This man is wicked evil.” The consensus among many was clear: Trump’s behavior during the memorial was deeply unsettling and inappropriate.
