Trump Administration Considers Federal Role in New York’s 9/11 Memorial

Published Time: 09-07-2025, 09:15 EDT

The Trump administration has signaled interest in exploring whether the federal government could assume control of New York City’s 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The proposal has sparked debate among state officials, survivors, and victims’ families, many of whom argue the site should remain locally managed.

Background: A Nationally Revered Site of Remembrance

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum in Lower Manhattan occupies the former site of the World Trade Center towers, destroyed during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the coordinated assaults on New York, the Pentagon, and a Pennsylvania field, with more than 2,700 victims perishing in the collapse of the twin towers.

Since opening to the public in 2014, the memorial has become a symbol of remembrance and resilience. It features two reflecting pools where the towers once stood, etched with the names of those lost, and an underground museum chronicling the events of that day. The institution is operated by the nonprofit National September 11 Memorial & Museum Foundation, chaired by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a frequent critic of former President Donald Trump.

White House Confirms Early Discussions

The White House confirmed that “preliminary exploratory discussions” have taken place regarding potential federal involvement in the memorial. Trump had previously pledged during his presidential campaign to designate the site as a national monument, which would place it under federal protection and oversight.

However, officials declined to provide details on how such a takeover might occur. Current laws prevent the federal government from unilaterally assuming control, as the land is owned by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Concerns from Museum Leadership

Leaders at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum expressed skepticism about the federal government’s role. Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the foundation, emphasized that the institution has been effectively operated through private funding and community support.

“We’re proud that our exhibitions tell stories of bravery and patriotism,” Hillman said. “Our current operating model has served the public honorably and effectively.”

Since its opening, the memorial has raised over $750 million in private funds and welcomed approximately 90 million visitors. Financial records show the museum generated more than $93 million in revenue last year, spending around $84 million on operations and maintaining a surplus after depreciation.

New York Officials Push Back

New York Governor Kathy Hochul voiced strong opposition to any federal takeover, warning that the move could politicize the memorial’s mission. She pointed to previous administration efforts to influence narratives in national museums and monuments.

“The 9/11 Memorial belongs to New Yorkers — the families, survivors, and first responders who have carried this legacy for more than two decades,” Hochul said. “Before meddling with this sacred site, the President should prioritize honoring survivors and supporting the families of victims.”

Families of Victims React

Reactions among victims’ families have been mixed, though many expressed doubt that federal management would bring improvements.

Anthoula Katsimatides, a museum board member who lost her brother, John, in the attacks, said she does not see the need for change. “They do an incredible job telling the story of that day without sugarcoating it,” she noted. “It’s being run so well, I don’t see why there has to be a change. I don’t see what benefit there would be.”

While the museum has faced some criticism over ticket prices and exhibit decisions, its overall mission has been widely praised for maintaining authenticity and solemnity.

Federal Program Links Raise Questions

The debate also follows previous controversies over federal support for 9/11 survivors. Last year, the administration briefly reduced staffing at a program providing health benefits to those suffering illnesses from toxic dust exposure at Ground Zero. The cuts were later reversed following public backlash.

Critics argue that this history raises concerns about how a federal takeover could affect the memorial’s operations and long-term independence.

Broader National Context

Designating the 9/11 Memorial as a federal site could theoretically ensure additional funding and protections. However, questions remain over how much control the government could exercise without undermining the site’s current governance model, which has relied heavily on private donations and community oversight.

Trump’s broader vision for national monuments and museums has also fueled debate. His administration previously sought to shape the presentation of American history in public spaces, raising fears among some New Yorkers that the narrative of September 11 could be reframed under federal management.

Looking Ahead

As discussions continue, both local leaders and victims’ families stress the importance of keeping the memorial’s mission intact. For many, the site is not just a historic landmark but a living testament to resilience and sacrifice.

Whether federal involvement proceeds or remains an unrealized proposal, the future of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum will likely remain a deeply emotional and politically sensitive subject.