Governor Hochul criticizes Trump's proposal for federal ownership of the 9/11 Museum; executives deem it illogical

On the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, a proposal to put the National September 11 Memorial & Museum under federal control has sparked controversy.

The idea was first floated by former New York Governor George Pataki, and discussions involving federal, state, and local officials have been ongoing. However, the proposal has faced strong opposition, particularly from victims' families and local officials.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has criticised President Donald Trump for attempting to take control of the memorial site. She stated that the 9/11 Memorial belongs to New Yorkers, particularly families, survivors, and first responders. Bill Keegan, founder of HEART 9/11 and a former Port Authority Police lieutenant, shares this sentiment. He opposes any loss of control of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum by New Yorkers.

Keegan, who is also a recipient of lifesaving care from the World Trade Center Health Program, expressed concern over proposed cuts to the program by the Trump administration. He praises the architects, engineers, and museum staff who built the memorial, calling it a true New York project that reflects resilience and loss.

The museum has reported financial losses, despite raising ticket prices and receiving public funds. The New York Times reported that Trump is exploring federal control of the memorial and museum, citing growing criticism from victims' families over steep admission prices and executive compensation.

Keegan believes that the people currently running the 9/11 Memorial & Museum are better equipped to maintain the site, as many were involved in its development from the beginning. Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, echoes this sentiment, stating that the federal government assuming full operating expenses makes "no sense."

The proposal for federal control has also raised concerns about Washington's potential control over the museum's exhibits and narrative. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have raised concerns over staffing cuts and other harmful Trump administration directives at the World Trade Center Health Program.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Donald Trump proposed designating Ground Zero as a national monument to be managed by the United States government. This proposal, if implemented, could significantly alter the way the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is managed and funded.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the 9/11 Memorial & Museum holds a significant place in the hearts of New Yorkers and Americans alike. The families of victims have denounced high salaries at the museum as a "slap in the face," and many fear that federal control could worsen the anger over the museum's $19 million deficit and rising executive pay.

The future of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the site will continue to serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience shown by those who responded to the attacks and the loss that the city and the nation experienced.