Trump seeks control of 9/11 Memorial; Hochul asserts it is for New Yorkers.

President Trump is reportedly considering an initiative that would transfer control of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in Lower Manhattan to the federal government. This proposal has sparked significant backlash from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who criticized the administration for its apparent inconsistency in supporting 9/11-related programs.

Hochul noted that the Trump administration had previously enacted substantial cuts to the World Trade Center Health Program, which is crucial for the treatment of first responders and survivors exposed to hazardous materials during and after the 2001 attacks. Approximately 137,000 individuals depend on this program for medical care and medications required to address health conditions linked to their exposure to toxins at Ground Zero.

In a public statement, Hochul emphasized the need for the federal government to prioritize support for those affected by the attacks rather than take over a memorial that holds deep significance for New Yorkers. She articulated that the 9/11 Memorial is built on the collective memory of families, survivors, and responders who have worked tirelessly to ensure that the legacy of the day is not forgotten.

Opened in 2014, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum has been described as a tribute to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice, serving to honor nearly 3,000 victims of the attacks as well as the heroes who facilitated rescue and recovery efforts. The museum’s chairman, Michael Bloomberg, a former mayor of New York City and a frequent critic of Trump, has stated that the memorial’s importance will only increase over time.

The White House acknowledged that preliminary discussions have taken place regarding federal oversight, although details remain sparse. The initiative appears to conflict with the broader trend of federal austerity measures, which have led to significant budget cuts across various sectors.

Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, has expressed skepticism about the practicality of a federal takeover, particularly in light of the government’s current fiscal policies. She noted that the museum operates effectively within its financial model, having spent approximately million on operating costs while generating over million in revenue in the past year.

Furthermore, Hillman clarified that the federal government lacks the authority to unilaterally seize control of the site, which is situated on land owned by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The potential shift in management has raised concerns regarding the preservation and accessibility of this memorial space, which remains a symbol of resilience and remembrance for many.

As the discussions unfold, the implications of such a move will undoubtedly reverberate through communities directly affected by the 9/11 attacks, highlighting ongoing debates about federal involvement in memorialization and public health initiatives.