President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for what appeared to be laughter during a ceremony commemorating the victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks.
Speaking to reporters as he departed Shannon Airport in Ireland on Sunday, Trump stated, "I think it’s terrible. It’s not a place to be laughing, especially in that case." He reiterated his view, calling the moment "terrible" and the behavior "inappropriate" during a significant part of the ceremony.
The images of Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani surfaced following the 25th anniversary of the attacks, which saw families of victims reading the names of those who died. Critics, including former 'The View' host Meghan McCain and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), expressed outrage online, questioning the appropriateness of their actions during the solemn occasion.
A source cited in reports suggested the interaction occurred after other officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, departed early, leaving Mamdani standing alone. The source described the situation as "awkward." While acknowledging Mamdani stayed until the end of the ceremony and spoke with families, the source noted that any perceived inappropriate behavior would draw scrutiny, particularly given Mamdani's past remarks. The source also mentioned that Mamdani does not distance himself from individuals who have made controversial statements regarding America being attacked.
However, Michael Ragusa, head of security for former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, defended the pair, stating the widely circulated clip was taken out of context. Ragusa claimed the camera captured a greeting and noted that other politicians, both Republican and Democrat, were also observed laughing behind him. He identified himself as a lifelong Republican who has been critical of Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani, adding, "Multiple other politicians were laughing and joking behind me."