Many Americans believe 9/11 had a negative lasting impact on the country instead of a positive one.
A Washington Post-ABC News poll found more than 8 in 10 Americans are convinced the events of 9/11 had lasting effects on the country. Forty-six percent think the events changed the country for the worse. Only 33% say the country was changed for the better.
This is a change from 2002 when 55% said the events changed the country for the better. Only 27% said it was changed for the worse.
Respondents were also asked about whether they believe the country is safer from terrorism than it was before 9/11. Fifty-seven percent of Democrats believe it is compared to 54% of Republicans who say it is less safe.
The poll was conducted from August 29 to September 1 among 1,0006 adults.
Saturday will mark the the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the country. President Joe Biden and the first lady will travel to New York City, Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon.
Nearly 1,800 family members of victims, first responders and survivors are demanding the president does not show up to the memorials unless he declassifies evidence they believe connects Saudi Arabian leaders with the attacks, as IJR reported.
“We cannot in good faith, and with veneration to those lost, sick, and injured, welcome the president to our hallowed grounds until he fulfills his commitment,” they said in a statement provided to NBC News.
The statement continued, “Since the conclusion of the 9/11 Commission in 2004 much investigative evidence has been uncovered implicating Saudi government officials in supporting the attacks.”
Last week, Biden ordered a declassification review of documents related to the FBI’s investigation of the attacks. He said in a statement his administration “will continue to engage respectfully with members of this community.”
