Don Lemon Considers Independent Presidential Run

The CNN alum believes he could 'run this country better' than Donald Trump, but is unsure about running as a Democrat.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:10pm

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A cinematic painting of a solitary figure standing alone in a dimly lit urban setting, with warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the complex intersection of media, politics, and racial dynamics.As a prominent media figure considers a potential independent presidential run, his legal troubles and commentary on racial barriers in politics raise questions about the evolving relationship between journalism and political power.Minneapolis Today

Don Lemon, the former CNN anchor, has hinted at a potential independent run for president in 2028, stating that he believes he could 'definitely run this country better' than former President Donald Trump. Lemon, who is Black, noted that the 'rules are different' for him compared to white men in politics. He also faces recent legal troubles after being indicted for his involvement in an anti-ICE protest at a Minneapolis church.

Why it matters

Lemon's potential presidential ambitions reflect a growing trend of high-profile media personalities exploring political careers, blurring the lines between journalism and politics. His comments on the 'different rules' for minority candidates also highlight ongoing discussions around systemic barriers and biases in the American political system.

The details

In a recent interview on the Pod Save America podcast, Lemon expressed interest in running for president, though he is unsure about doing so as a Democrat. He believes he could 'run this country better than Donald Trump,' but acknowledged the challenges of running as an independent candidate. Lemon also faces legal troubles after being indicted for his involvement in an anti-ICE protest at a Minneapolis church, which he has vowed to fight.

  • Lemon was indicted in January 2026 for his role in the Minneapolis church protest.
  • Lemon pleaded not guilty to the charges following his indictment.

The players

Don Lemon

A former CNN anchor who is considering an independent run for president in 2028, believing he could 'run this country better' than former President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump

The former president whom Lemon believes he could outperform as president.

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What they’re saying

“I think I could be president of the United States. I could definitely run this country better than Donald Trump. As an independent though, there would be a hard time for me to run for anything. Because the way the system is set up I'd have to choose a side. And so, I probably would have to become a Democrat.”

— Don Lemon, Former CNN Anchor

“The events before my arrest, and what's happened since, show that people are finally realizing what this administration is all about. The process is the punishment with them. … I will not be intimidated. I will not back down. I will fight these baseless charges, and I will not be silenced.”

— Don Lemon, Former CNN Anchor

What’s next

The judge in Lemon's case will decide in the coming weeks whether to allow him to be released on bail as he prepares to fight the charges.

The takeaway

Lemon's potential presidential ambitions and his legal troubles highlight the complex intersection of media, politics, and racial dynamics in the United States. His comments on the 'different rules' for minority candidates underscore the ongoing need for greater diversity and equity in the American political system.