Objections to a Muslim officeholder at 9/11 events divide over motive: critics cite political ties and appointments, while defenders see religion-based suspicion linking Muslims to the attacks

Marking twenty-five years since the attacks that killed 2,977 people, the ceremony has become contested. A petition led by a victim's widower asks organizers to bar Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who intends to attend and has designated the date a citywide day of remembrance and service.