New Delhi: Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump stood in close proximity in New York City to honor the 23rd anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The solemn event came just hours after the two faced off on the debate stage, marking their first encounter in a high-profile political setting.Commemoration at ground zeroHarris and President Joe Biden stood beside former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, while Trump was flanked by his running mate, Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio), and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. The two groups remained separated by Bloomberg, highlighting the division between current and former political leaders.Before the official ceremony began, Vice President Harris was seen conversing with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), President Biden, and other attendees. Meanwhile, Trump primarily engaged in conversation with Vance, appearing more reserved. In a quieter moment, Harris, Biden, Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and New York Governor Kathy Hochul gathered in a private conversation.Watch the video here:New Yorkers beg for Trump back in front of Biden & Harris at the 9/11 ceremony pic.twitter.com/Imt6IUg4Nr— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) September 11, 2024Moment of reflectionAt precisely 8:46 AM, a bell rang to mark the moment when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Both Harris and Biden bowed their heads in respect during the moment of silence, as did the other attendees. Another bell tolled at 9:03 a.m., commemorating when United Airlines Flight 175 hit the South Tower. While Trump glanced around during the second moment of silence, Harris stood with her eyes closed in reflection, and Biden kept his head lowered.Honoring the fallenThroughout the ceremony, family members of the victims took turns reading the names of those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The moving tribute saw attendees holding up photographs of their loved ones, while police officers solemnly held the American flag in remembrance. Harris, Trump, Biden, and others in attendance watched the proceedings in respectful silence, acknowledging the gravity of the day.Day after the debateThe commemoration came just after a heated debate between Harris and Trump in Philadelphia. During the debate, the two sparred over key issues including reproductive rights, the economy, race relations, and immigration. Harris was praised for delivering a sharp performance, managing to bait Trump on several occasions.
