Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is openly weighing a White House bid, saying the odds of him entering a future presidential race are now above 50%."
Lemon, who was dismissed from CNN in 2023 after years as one of the networks most prominent liberal voices, said he has been repeatedly urged to run by admirers of his new podcast and online commentary program, according to Just The News. He described the outpouring of encouragement since his departure from the cable network as very humbling, suggesting that his post-CNN audience has emboldened him to consider a leap from media personality to Democratic standard-bearer.
Look, I never say never. Ive got a lot on my plate right now doing what Im doing," he told host Spencer Macnaughton on his Uncloseted podcast. "This is not easy to do every day, but ... I am very aware of the importance of what Im doing, what it means to the culture and society."
Lemon, a self-identified Democrat, acknowledged he is conflicted about trading journalism for politics, noting that a serious presidential campaign would demand his full attention. Still, he said he would contemplate the move if his supporters demonstrate they genuinely want him to run and are prepared to back him.
In a remark likely to rankle many conservatives, Lemon declared, "I think I could be a better president than Donald Trump,' directly challenging the record and popularity of President Trump among Republican voters. He added, How serious is it? If the people want me, Ill do it. But it is a daunting undertaking to run for president in this country because youd have to be devoted to it full-time. And I would like to devote much of my time to journalism."
When Im out there, Im out there, and I cover the candidates, and I look at what they do, and theyre very good, he continued, offering rare praise for the politicians he might one day oppose. It makes me wonder my best way of being and operating in this society, whether it is through journalism or if it is through becoming the President of the United States.
Pressed to quantify his intentions, Lemon estimated the likelihood of a future run at 65% to 70%, a strikingly high figure for someone with no prior experience in elected office. He did not specify an election cycle, leaving open possibilities such as 2028 or even 2032, when he would still be within the typical age range for modern presidential contenders.
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