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On air at 1700GMT: Should President Obama be visiting Ground Zero today?

Robyn Bresnahan Robyn Bresnahan | 12:34 UK time, Thursday, 5 May 2011

This topic was discussed on World Have Your Say on 5 May 2011. Listen to the programme.

Ground Zero in New York City

Later today, the American President Barack Obama plans to visit Ground Zero in New York City to lay a wreath in memory of the victims of the 9/11 attacks. It comes on the heels of the killing of Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan.

Obama's supporters say the visit is fitting and appropriate. His opponents say it has more to do with politics than compassion.

What do you think?

Republican strategist Brad Blakeman lost his nephew on 9/11. He says today's visit is a mistake.

"It's certainly not an anniversary; it's not a cause for celebration. It's manufacturing an event and he's doing this because he's a candidate for President in 2012."

But on Facebook, Scott Olsen disagrees.

"It's our President bringing to a close a chapter in our nation's history. It is a right and honourable thing for him to do."

In an , Maggie Haberman and Glenn Thrush discuss President Obama's Ground Zero balancing act.

What do you think? Is it an inappropriate politicking victory lap - or a fitting tribute to the many families who lost loved ones?

We'd very much like to hear from you.


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