Governor Hochul criticizes Trump's proposal for federal governance of the 9/11 Museum; museum officials deem it absurd
In a move that has stirred controversy, former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly been exploring the idea of federal control of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. This proposal, as confirmed by a White House source, comes as the federal government contemplates taking over the memorial plaza and museum, currently run by a public charity chaired by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Governor Kathy Hochul has been vocal in her criticism of this proposal. She stated that the 9/11 Memorial belongs to New Yorkers, specifically families, survivors, and first responders. Hochul emphasized that the memorial's central purpose is to help future generations understand the resilience shown by those who responded to the attacks.
Bill Keegan, founder of HEART 9/11 and a former Port Authority Police lieutenant, shares Hochul's sentiments. As a recipient of lifesaving care from the World Trade Center Health Program, Keegan is particularly concerned about proposed cuts by the Trump administration. He believes the museum is in better hands with the people who have been there since the beginning.
Keegan's concerns are shared by Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, who have raised concerns over staffing cuts and other harmful Trump administration directives at the World Trade Center Health Program, a lifeline for thousands of 9/11 responders and survivors.
The museum has remained unprofitable despite raising ticket prices to $36 for adults and as much as $85 for combined tours. This has led to criticism over the museum's $19 million deficit and rising executive pay. Keegan acknowledged these criticisms but expressed fear that Washington's assumption of control could worsen the situation.
Keegan praised the architects, engineers, and museum staff who built the memorial, calling it a true New York project. He expressed concern that federal oversight could jeopardize the memorial's mission.
Trump proposed designating Ground Zero as a national monument during his 2024 presidential campaign. However, the idea of federal control of the memorial and museum has been met with denouncement from families of victims, who view high salaries at the museum as a "slap in the face."
Despite the controversy, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum will hold its annual ceremony this September, a testament to the resilience and remembrance that the memorial represents. The future of its management, however, remains a topic of ongoing debate.
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