Former CNN anchor Don Lemon walks out of the United States District Court after his arraignment in Saint Paul, Minnesota, U.S. February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Go Nakamura TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
(New York, New York) – Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is again under fire following controversial comments made during a recent podcast appearance — nearly a month after he drew scrutiny in connection with a federal investigation in Minnesota.
In the latest instance, Lemon said, “Do you know what the most significant addiction crisis in America is today? It is the greed of the billionaire class.” He also added, “I don’t think that you can be Black and be a rational MAGA person.” The remarks quickly spread online, reigniting criticism from conservatives and some civil rights advocates.
The renewed backlash comes weeks after the U.S. Department of Justice confirmed federal prosecutors were sent to Minnesota following the illegal disruption of a Christian church service by anti-ICE activists. Lemon faced mounting criticism at the time not only for being present at the scene, but for comments he made afterward defending the protesters and criticizing churchgoers, according to widely circulated video clips.
DOJ officials labeled the church incident a top-priority matter, citing federal protections for places of worship. While Lemon has not been charged with any wrongdoing, critics argue his rhetoric in both situations has intensified political and cultural tensions.
