Former CNN host Don Lemon revealed on Sunday that he is contemplating a run for the presidency of the United States.
During an appearance on “Pod Save America,” Lemon expressed that he believes he could lead the country more effectively than former President Donald Trump. However, he mentioned that he is not currently pursuing an office because he feels white male candidates generally garner more support than their minority counterparts. “Have you considered this? Yes,” he stated. “Is it possible? Sure, if the right opportunity comes along. I understand that if I pursued this, people might think I was insane. It would make the news, and there would be plenty of jokes about it. But I really believe I could be president and do a better job than Trump.”
Lemon affirmed, “Am I ready for that now? Not exactly. People might think I’m out of my mind. But why shouldn’t I think about running? Why not envision myself as the president of the United States?” He went on to say that he manages a news organization “better than many” and could resolve numerous issues quickly.
CNN terminated Lemon’s contract in April 2023 after 17 years with the network, following backlash over his remark referring to former Republican candidate Nikki Haley as being past her “prime,” a comment widely viewed as sexist.
Additionally, Lemon faced legal issues when he was arrested on January 29, charged with a federal civil rights violation for allegedly disrupting a church service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, while joining anti-ICE protesters. He maintains his innocence, claiming he was acting in a journalistic capacity.
