Former CNN host Don Lemon cites 65 to 70 percent chance of presidential bid

Don Lemon, the former CNN anchor and current podcaster, stated he faces a "65, 70%" probability of launching a campaign for the presidency. Lemon, who was dismissed by CNN in 2023, has no prior political experience but recently told listeners on the "Can't be Censored" podcast that he believes he would serve better as president than Donald Trump. He expressed a desire to run a voter-driven campaign that minimizes the need for fundraising, though he acknowledged he might eventually accept donations.

Former colleagues at CNN reacted with skepticism to Lemon's potential entry into the race. One staffer told Fox News Digital that the idea is implausible, citing Lemon's 2023 controversy where he suggested Republican candidate Nikki Haley was past her "prime" at age 51. Lemon, who is now 60, later apologized for those remarks. The staffer noted that if age is a factor in political viability, it would disqualify Lemon. Another former colleague described the prospect as amusing, suggesting it would be less boring than the standard nomination process, but doubted Lemon would actually file for office.

Lemon's public profile shifted earlier this year following a felony indictment related to livestreaming a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement at a Minnesota church. He maintained that he was acting as a journalist and was not part of the group harassing churchgoers. Since the incident, Lemon has intensified his criticism of Trump. A former colleague observed that while Lemon seeks influence and impact, a presidential run is primarily a fundraising effort that requires single-minded focus, which conflicts with maintaining his status as a media personality. They suggested other offices might be more realistic targets if he wishes to enter public service.

Lemon was fired by then-CNN CEO Chris Licht in 2023 after being moved from his primetime hosting role to a morning show with Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow. His tenure ended amid on-air conflicts and backlash over his comments about Haley. Since leaving the network, Lemon launched his own media company. A third former staffer acknowledged that Lemon has maintained relevance since his departure and noted the open nature of the current Democratic nomination process, stating they could not dismiss his stated interest entirely despite doubts about his seriousness.

Lemon is not the first CNN figure to attempt elected office. On-air analyst John Avlon ran for a New York congressional seat as a Democrat in 2024 but was defeated. Lemon previously indicated he had no political ambitions but began considering them after receiving requests from the public. He did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding his potential candidacy.