New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced severe backlash after his chief counsel, a former Guantánamo defense lawyer, received a symbolic 9/11 signing pen.
As the United States marks 25 years since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Americans across the country are gathering to honor the nearly 3,000 people who perished and reflect on the day that forever changed the nation. In New York City, leaders like Vice President JD Vance and past presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush were seen mingling with other leaders ahead of the memorial ceremony at the World Trade Center. One moment quickly went viral on social media after Bush and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani shook hands-but Bush did not appear too friendly with the socialist Muslim mayor. Mamdani has faced criticism several times this week as the country prepares for 9/11.
Mamdani was slammed earlier this week in an unexpected moment during a City Hall ceremony marking the upcoming 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. After signing executive orders honoring 9/11 victims and strengthening city emergency preparedness, Mamdani directed that the ceremonial pen be passed to one of his senior aides, whose past legal work quickly became the focus of controversy. The ceremony was intended to establish September 11 as an annual citywide Day of Remembrance and Service while also updating the city’s continuity planning.