Don Lemon Stands Firm Amid Criticism Over Reporting on Church Protest

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is defending his coverage of recent anti-ICE protests at St. Paul’s Church, even as the Justice Department raises concerns about his involvement. “It’s interesting that I was picked to represent the protests I was reporting on, especially since other journalists were there too,” Lemon shared in a statement. He noted that the online backlash—including homophobic and racist remarks—has been exacerbated by some right-wing media. “Instead of fueling anger, maybe we should focus on the underlying issues, like the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good. I fully support my reporting,” he added.

Lemon gained attention for his live coverage from Cities Church, asserting that the freedom to protest is a core part of the First Amendment. However, Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights, argued that Lemon’s participation could be illegal. “The chapel isn’t a public venue for protests. It’s protected by federal laws against this type of conduct,” Dhillon tweeted, adding that the First Amendment doesn’t cover what she dubbed “pseudo-journalism that disrupts worship.”

In an interview, Dhillon indicated that while Lemon has the right to participate, his journalist role doesn’t serve as a legal shield against possible wrongdoing. “He knew what he was doing when he entered the facility. He can’t invoke journalism as a defense against possible criminal actions,” she stated.

Concerned for future incidents, Dhillon announced the government’s commitment to prevent similar disruptions at places of worship. “This needs to be taken seriously,” she remarked. “Next Sunday, no one should think they can act with impunity. The federal government will be enforcing the law.” Lemon began his independent YouTube channel after his departure from CNN in 2023.

Previously on “The Benny Johnson Show,” Lemon stated that the Justice Department is looking into possible violations of the federal FACE Act. This law makes it illegal to obstruct religious worship or damage places of worship. “I have no ties to the group involved. I only learned about the protest at the church when we got there. We were just documenting what happened, talking to pastors and parishioners. It’s journalism, pure and simple,” Lemon explained in an Instagram video.

He concluded, “Before blaming me for something unknown, try addressing the organizers of the protest.” According to the FACE Act, using force to threaten or harm someone seeking reproductive health services or exercising their rights to religious freedom can lead to significant penalties.