It was Clinton’s “stand down” orders in 1994/95 that led to 9/11. There were no “ready alert” fighters anywhere near DC (closest was Langley, Va and they arrived after the plane had crashed into the Pentagon (I heard the plane, the explosion and saw the smoke. If I had not been a little late for work, I would have been right next to the Pentagon when it got hit).
The same for no “ready alert” fighters in New York City area, a major target for any terrorist group.
I won’t blame Clinton for all the “stand down” orders because some were justified, but NOT leaving our skies protected, esp. around DC, New York, Boston, Chicago, etc. was stupid, stupid, stupid.
The 101st FS out of Otis ANGB scrambled two jets on 9/11. They were the only east coast unit that still had alert aircraft. Due to the confusion that day, they didn’t get on station until after the second tower was hit.