A quarter-century after the September 11 terrorist attacks, the United States is preparing to remember the nearly 3,000 victims. This anniversary also brings focus on Donald Trump’s comments about the attacks, his tributes, and claims about his involvement at Ground Zero that have been questioned.
Remembering the Attacks
On September 11, 2025, Trump addressed a remembrance ceremony at the Pentagon. He described the attacks as a confrontation with “pure evil” and promised the victims would not be forgotten. Trump stated, “On that fateful day, savage monsters attacked the very symbols of our civilization.” He praised Americans for their resilience in Virginia, New York, and Pennsylvania, saying they demonstrated strength in the face of adversity. Trump warned attackers, “If you attack the United States of America, we will hunt you down and we will find you… We will crush you without mercy.”
Controversies and Clarifications
Ahead of the 25th anniversary in 2026, Trump disputed reports that he chose the Pentagon ceremony over Ground Zero because officials would not let him speak. “I would love not to speak,” he wrote on Truth Social, emphasizing the importance of remembering the victims.
Trump also addressed a Steel Across America event, reaffirming the vow, “we will never forget.” He claimed he brought workers to Lower Manhattan after the attacks. Trump’s account, which included a story about firefighters carrying him, faced scrutiny. He clarified that he was not at the World Trade Center during the collapse but visited “shortly thereafter.”
Remembrance and Branding
Trump was in New York on the day of the attack, watching events from his Trump Tower apartment. In a 2002 interview with Howard Stern, he recalled, “I saw the whole thing…I watched the second plane come in.” His initial remarks were made during a television interview soon after the attacks, advocating for a tough response.
Trump commented on 40 Wall Street’s status as the second-tallest building in lower Manhattan, linking the detail to brand recognition. Alan Marcus, a colleague at the time, noted, “He is the brand manager of Trump, and he is going to tout that brand.”
Presence at Ground Zero
Trump visited Ground Zero two days post-attack, described by the Washington Post as “impeccably dressed.” In interviews, he depicted the devastation and praised New Yorkers’ resilience. Trump claimed he hired workers for rescue efforts, but these assertions remain unsupported by evidence.
While campaigning, Trump often suggested he was part of debris clearance, citing a 2016 event in Buffalo where he mentioned watching and helping “a little bit.”
Invoking 9/11 During Campaigns
Trump frequently referenced 9/11 in his presidential campaign. During a primary debate, he defended “New York values,” recalling the global sympathy New Yorkers received post-attacks.
He criticized former President George W. Bush, blaming him for the attack’s occurrence and asserting that, under his leadership, Osama bin Laden would have been captured earlier.
Trump controversially claimed to have seen “thousands” of Muslims celebrating the attacks in New Jersey, a statement lacking evidence, sparking further debate.
Additionally, a deleted 2013 tweet where Trump extended wishes “to all, even the haters and losers,” on September 11th, added to past controversies.