NEW YORK — Former President Donald Trump commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks by making a surprise visit to a New York City police precinct and neighboring fire station on Saturday.
The former president, a New York City native, spoke briefly about the attack on the World Trade Center, the recent Afghanistan withdrawal and fielded questions about a possible run for president in 2024, WNBC reported.
Trump did not attend the ceremony at Ground Zero in Manhattan but traveled several blocks from his Trump Tower building to visit the New York Police Department’s 17th Precinct and at Ladder Co. 2, the fire station next door, the television station reported.
Trump called the somber anniversary “a very sad day for a lot of reasons.” He praised the police and firefighters in brief remarks, according to Fox News.
Trump was asked by the officers whether he plans to launch a comeback run for the White House in 2024 -- or for mayor of New York. He said it was an easy decision that would make them happy.https://t.co/BDehDUYCHp
— NBC New York (@NBCNewYork) September 11, 2021
“I grew up with you and you are New York’s finest. You’re incredible people,” Trump said. “I know many of you.”
Trump also criticized President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan and was coy when asked if he would seek a second term in 2024. If Trump runs and wins, he would be the second president to serve nonconsecutive terms. Grover Cleveland, in the late 19th century, was the first.
“That’s a tough question,” Trump said. “Actually, for me, it’s an easy question. I mean, I know what I’m going to do, but I’m not supposed to be talking about it yet from the standpoint of campaign finance laws, which, frankly, are ridiculous.”
“But I think you’re going to be happy.”
Trump posed for photos with police officers, joking that “If I catch COVID, it’s because of you,” WNBC reported.
The former president was scheduled to end his day in Florida, where he is providing commentary on a boxing match, the television station reported. UFC light heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort will meet former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, 58, at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, according to The Sporting News.
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