President Joe Biden’s decision to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in Alaska instead of New York City has sparked criticism from veterans and Republicans who view it as a snub to the American people. Biden plans to attend a “memorial ceremony” in Alaska, while First Lady Jill Biden will stay in Washington, D.C., and Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will participate in a commemoration ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City.
Veterans and critics argue that Biden’s choice to forgo a visit to New York City is disrespectful to the military and the heroes who responded to the 9/11 attacks. Marine Corps veteran Mark Geist expressed his disappointment, recalling his personal experience on that fateful day and his subsequent years of service overseas. He emphasized the need for political leaders to show reverence and compassion on this solemn day, which resonates deeply with the American people.
Another Marine Corps veteran, Victor Marx, believes that Biden’s decision is a missed opportunity and sends the wrong message. He suggests that by not visiting the 9/11 memorial sites, Biden fails to demonstrate his dedication to upholding American values and principles, leaving some questioning his understanding of the significance of this historic day.
Critics point out that former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush marked the 9/11 anniversary with moments of silence or commemorations on the White House lawn. In contrast, Biden’s decision to visit Alaska and not attend any memorial sites or the White House marks a departure from this tradition. Representative Cory Mills, a Republican from Florida, expressed his concerns, calling it another snub to the American people and questioning Biden’s mental competency.
Many Republicans and former military members have criticized Biden for his handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, particularly after the ISIS-K suicide bombing that killed 13 U.S. service members near the Kabul airport. Chad Robichaux, a Force Recon Marine veteran, lamented what he perceives as another instance of the administration’s disrespect for the country.
In summary, critics argue that President Biden’s choice to commemorate the 9/11 anniversary in Alaska instead of New York City is a departure from past presidential traditions and an affront to the memory of those who lost their lives on that tragic day. They view it as a missed opportunity to show reverence and compassion to the American people and question the administration’s commitment to upholding American values and principles.
