President Donald Trump criticized Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. He condemned their behavior during the reading of victims’ names at the 9/11 Memorial. Trump labeled their actions as “terrible” and “inappropriate.”
“I think it’s terrible,” Trump stated about the Democrats in a video. “It’s not a place to be laughing, especially in that case.” He emphasized that their demeanor at the ceremony’s crucial moment was inappropriate.
The criticism followed a video of Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani appearing engaged in a light-hearted interaction at Ground Zero. This incident incited criticism on social media.
A television feed showed emotional moments at the ceremony followed by Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani smiling. Their conversation wasn’t audible to those watching.
The ceremony marked the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Nearly 3,000 people died in the 2001 attacks. The video rapidly circulated online, leading to accusations of disrespect toward the solemn day.
Rep. Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, expressed his disapproval on social media, asserting the seriousness of Ground Zero as sacred ground. He criticized the perceived levity during a critical and somber moment.
New York City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, a Republican, also criticized the scene. She highlighted Mamdani’s presence despite opposition from victims’ families. Mamdani attended despite a petition with over 110,000 signatures urging him to stay away.
Michael Ragusa, a former aide to Mayor Rudy Giuliani, defended Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani. He was present during the ceremony and countered claims that they joked about the event. Ragusa noted that multiple politicians, both Republicans and Democrats, displayed similar behavior.
At times, Mamdani appeared somber throughout the ceremony. The content of his and Ocasio-Cortez’s conversation remains unknown.
Fox News Digital contacted Mamdani and Ocasio-Cortez for their comments but received no immediate response.