Don Lemon, known for his previous tenure at CNN and now operating as an independent journalist, spoke out in his first televised interview since being released from custody regarding his arrest at an anti-ICE protest in St. Paul, Minnesota. Appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Lemon elaborated on his intentions and the circumstances surrounding his presence at the Cities Church demonstration on January 18.
"I went there to chronicle and document and record what was happening," Lemon told Kimmel, clarifying the critical difference between his role as a journalist and that of the protesters he was covering. The protest in question saw demonstrators interrupt a religious service at Cities Church, with the assertion from protesters that one of the pastors is a leading ICE official based in the Twin Cities area. The tension escalated into confrontations during the event, which Lemon and fellow journalist Georgia Fort were streaming live.
Federal prosecutors have charged both journalists along with protesters in allegations of conspiring to infringe upon constitutional rights and violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. This statute prohibits force or threats intended to interrupt individuals exercising their First Amendment right to religious worship. Prosecutors described Lemon and Fort as participants in what they termed a "takeover-style attack," accusing them of intimidating church attendees.
According to a federal prosecutor who spoke in court, Lemon acknowledged during the protest livestream that the intent was to evoke a traumatic and uncomfortable experience for those attending the service. These legal accusations have raised concerns among media advocates who see them as attempts to suppress journalistic freedom in covering contentious protests.
Don Lemon recounted to Kimmel how the arrest unfolded unexpected and aggressive manner. Despite being willing to surrender voluntarily upon learning of potential charges, Lemon detailed that federal agents confronted him at a Los Angeles hotel where he was covering the Grammy Awards.
"Instead of being able to surrender voluntarily, at least a dozen federal agents were present," Lemon stated, adding that he was "jostled" near an elevator before being handcuffed. He further explained the delay in agents identifying themselves and presenting a warrant. Lemon noted that his attorney had tried to communicate with prosecutors to arrange a more discrete surrender, avoiding what he perceived as an intimidating show of force.
"They want to embarrass you, they want to intimidate you, they want to instill fear," Lemon said during his conversation with Kimmel, highlighting the pressure he felt from the law enforcement approach to his arrest.
Following his arrest, Lemon was brought before a federal court, where bail was set at $100,000. Prosecutors emphasized that conditions were necessary to prevent potential repeat conduct before trial. Lemon’s defense agreed to restrictions including no contact with other involved parties and approval required for foreign travel, although a planned trip to Europe in June was permitted by the judge.
The case has drawn widespread attention, with civil rights organizations and First Amendment advocates denouncing the government’s handling of Lemon’s arrest. Jane Fonda’s Committee for the First Amendment explicitly stated that "arresting journalists for doing their jobs is an attack on our freedoms and our democracy." The response from legal experts highlights the unusual and challenging nature of charging journalists under statutes like the FACE Act and conspiracy to violate constitutional rights.
In concert with legal developments, Lemon found notable support within the entertainment industry. Rather than covering the Grammys as a journalist, he attended the awards as a guest. At a pre-Grammys gala hosted by music executive Clive Davis, Lemon received public recognition, including a partial standing ovation, illustrating significant backing from peers and industry figures.
The Trump administration has defended the arrests, asserting that those who entered the church disrupted worship and violated congregants’ First Amendment rights. Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox News that individuals charged had "committed a crime under the FACE Act and they will be held accountable." President Trump himself commented that he was unfamiliar with the case and made dismissive remarks about Lemon, suggesting the arrest may end up benefiting the journalist by increasing his exposure.
Lemon’s upcoming arraignment is scheduled to occur in Los Angeles. The unfolding legal proceedings continue to be closely watched, raising complex issues about the intersection of protest actions, journalistic responsibility, and constitutional protections.