We are live in lower Manhattan this morning, with the Freedom Tower climbing in the sky behind us and Memorial Plaza in the background. Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the tragic events of September 11th, when nearly 3000 lives were lost in a terrorist attack. Families are gathering to honor and remember their loved ones, a tradition that includes reading out the names of those who perished.
At 8:46 a.m., the first moment of silence will be observed to commemorate when the North Tower was struck. Throughout the morning, the names of the victims will be read aloud, creating a poignant and heart-wrenching atmosphere.
Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas, joined the event, emphasizing the somber nature of the day while also highlighting the resilience and strength of the American way of life. He acknowledged the evolving threat landscape, with a continued focus on foreign terrorist threats and the rise of domestic radicalization.
Regarding the recent bipartisan panel created to investigate the attempted assassination, Secretary Mayorkas mentioned that a report is expected by the end of the month, emphasizing the urgency of addressing such events promptly.
When asked about the issue of securing the border and illegal immigration, Secretary Mayorkas stressed the importance of focusing on facts rather than fiction. He noted a significant decrease in encounters at the southern border and called for congressional action to address the broken immigration system.
In response to claims that illegal immigration and migrant crime pose significant threats to the country, Secretary Mayorkas refuted these assertions, stating that such narratives are false and not in line with American values.
As the nation reflects on the events of September 11th and pays tribute to the lives lost, Secretary Mayorkas's presence serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of the American homeland.
