The United States is observing the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, focusing on the lives lost and the lasting impact on survivors. This year's commemoration is intertwined with the political climate as the anniversary falls during the presidential election season.

On September 11, 2001, hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, while another crashed in Pennsylvania, killing nearly 3,000 people. This year’s observance comes with heightened political attention as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are expected to attend memorial services at the World Trade Center in New York and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania.

The occasion is particularly significant following their first debate, adding a layer of political tension to the memorial events. In contrast, during the 2008 anniversary, then-senators John McCain and Barack Obama set aside their political rivalry to visit Ground Zero together, laying flowers at the site.

It remains uncertain whether Harris and Trump will cross paths at the ceremonies. If they do, it would be a notable moment, occurring just hours after their debate.

Despite the political backdrop, the focus of the anniversary ceremonies remains on the victims. Traditionally, politicians are kept in the background, with the primary role given to relatives who honor the victims by reading their names aloud.

Patriot Day, observed annually on September 11, is a solemn holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring the lives of those tragically lost during the terrorist attacks of 2001. The day serves as a reminder of the nearly 3,000 innocent people who perished when the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Virginia were targeted. It also commemorates the heroic passengers of United Airlines Flight 93, who sacrificed their lives to prevent further devastation when their plane crashed in Pennsylvania.

Patriot Day 2024: A Day to Remember the Heroes and Lives Lost on September 11