CNN Defends Don Lemon Amid Arrest Over Protests in St. Paul

UPDATE: Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is facing federal charges following his arrest connected to a viral protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incident, which disrupted a church service amid accusations that the pastor collaborated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has raised critical questions about press freedom.

CNN officially defended Lemon, emphasizing the alarming implications for journalists’ rights. In a statement, the network expressed concern over the Department of Justice’s actions, stating, “The FBI’s arrest of our former CNN colleague raises profoundly concerning questions about press freedom and the First Amendment.” This statement follows a judge’s earlier ruling that found “no evidence” of criminal behavior linked to Lemon’s reporting activities.

During the protest, Lemon livestreamed the events, highlighting the demonstrators’ right to protest as a vital aspect of the First Amendment. Despite this, Justice Department officials are pushing to hold participants accountable, leading to escalating tensions. CNN stated, “The First Amendment in the United States protects journalists who bear witness to news and events as they unfold,” calling the DOJ’s actions “unacceptable.”

Lemon, who was terminated from CNN in 2023, is now hosting his own show on platforms like YouTube and Substack. His history at CNN has been marked by controversies, and several media figures have come forward to support him during this tumultuous time.

On the recent episode of “State of the Union,” CNN’s Dana Bash directly questioned Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding the motivations behind Lemon’s arrest, asking, “Was this really about what you just described, or was it about trying to make an example out of somebody who the president has sparred with?” In response, Blanche stated, “We’re not making examples of people.”

Lemon’s arrest has sparked a broader conversation about journalistic integrity and the right to protest. He expressed gratitude towards CNN for their support during his podcast, stating, “I have no animus for CNN. I tell the truth about what I see, and I think it’s time for all journalists to stand up for each other.”

The situation remains fluid as media outlets, including The New York Times, continue to weigh in on the implications of Lemon’s arrest. As this case develops, the media landscape will closely monitor its outcomes and potential impact on press freedoms across the nation.

Stay tuned for more updates as details emerge regarding this urgent situation in St. Paul.