Campaign season and the constant politics and policies of leaders have no place by the twin towers, according to the National September 11th Memorial and Museum’s staff. Although politicians like George W. Bush and Condoleezza Rice have attended in the past, the organizers of the annual tribute ceremony would rather do without their presence this year—and have barred politicians from participating.

Joe Daniels, president of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, said the foundation "is focused on honoring the victims and their families in a way free of politics, and this ensures that continues,” according to CNN. With the next election less than two months after the event, it’s sad but clear to see how the moment of mourning could be used to win over votes. In a letter to the victims, it was explained that the reading of the names of fallen victims would be "the exclusive focus of the program.” More than a million people have visited the memorial in lower Manhattan since its opening on September 11, 2011.