CNN supports Don Lemon following the arrest of a former host related to coverage of an anti-ICE protest.

CNN’s Response to Don Lemon’s Arrest

CNN has come forward to defend Don Lemon, a former employee, following his recent arrest related to a protest that disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota. This protest involved anti-ICE activists, and Lemon was livestreaming the event.

The network expressed serious concerns over press freedom in their statement, emphasizing, “FBL’s arrest of former CNN colleague Don Lemon raises grave concerns about press freedom and the First Amendment.” According to CNN, the Justice Department had previously attempted to secure arrest warrants for Lemon and other journalists without success. Furthermore, a judge in the Federal District Court of Minnesota found no evidence to suggest any criminal activity on their part.

Lemon had been streaming the protest in real-time when left-wing activists confronted the pastor of Cities Church, accusing him of collaborating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). During the livestream, Lemon noted the First Amendment’s core value: the right to protest, though he acknowledged that Justice Department officials are seeking accountability from those involved.

Continuing on this theme, CNN reiterated that the First Amendment protects journalists reporting on news events. They criticized the Justice Department’s efforts as “unacceptable” and pledged to monitor the situation closely.

After a 17-year tenure at CNN, Lemon was let go in 2023 amidst various controversies. Since then, he has launched his own show on platforms like YouTube and Substack.

His former colleagues in the media, including CNN’s Dana Bash, have stood up for him, questioning whether the arrest was an effort to set an example due to Lemon’s outspoken criticism of the current administration. Bash raised this point directly to Attorney General Todd Blanche during a recent interview.

Blanche responded, stating, “The president doesn’t even think about Don Lemon,” asserting that there was no intent to target Lemon specifically as an example.

In a moment of reflection, Lemon expressed gratitude towards those at CNN who defended him. He shared his thoughts on his podcast, drawing attention to the importance of unity among journalists.

Other outlets like The New York Times have also voiced support for Lemon, reinforcing the notion that press freedoms are under threat in this climate.