Trump Reportedly Seeks Federal Control of 9/11 Memorial; Hochul Criticizes

President Donald Trump's administration is exploring a federal takeover of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, a move that has drawn strong criticism from New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Hochul condemned the proposal, emphasizing that the memorial belongs to New Yorkers, including families, survivors, and first responders, and urged Trump to instead honor and support those affected by the attacks. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is currently managed by a public charity chaired by former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and museum leaders argue that federal takeover is legally complicated and financially impractical amid government cost-cutting efforts. Critics have also pointed out Trump's previous cuts to the World Trade Center Health Program, which supports survivors and responders, as contradictory to his interest in controlling the memorial. Additionally, concerns have been raised about potential political influence over the museum's content if it were federally controlled. The White House has confirmed that only preliminary exploratory discussions have taken place, with no clear legal pathway identified for the federal government to assume control of the site.