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Drudge Retort: The Other Side of the News
Friday, January 30, 2026

The former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested late Thursday night on charges that he violated federal law during a protest at a church in St. Paul, Minn., his lawyer said, in a case rejected last week by a magistrate judge.

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STATEMENT FROM ABBE LOWELL, ATTORNEY FOR DON LEMON

[image or embed]

-- Adam Parkhomenko (@adamparkhomenko.bsky.social) Jan 30, 2026 at 8:26 AM

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Admin's note: Participants in this discussion must follow the site's moderation policy. Profanity will be filtered. Abusive conduct is not allowed.

More: The protesters interrupted a service at the church, where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official serves as a pastor, and chanted "ICE out." Afterward, the Trump administration sought to charge eight people over the episode, including Mr. Lemon, citing a law that protects people seeking to participate in a service in a house of worship.

But the magistrate judge who reviewed the evidence approved charges against only three of the people, rejecting the evidence against Mr. Lemon and the others as insufficient. The Justice Department then petitioned a federal appeals court to force the judge to issue the additional warrants, only to be denied.

Abbe Lowell, a lawyer for Mr. Lemon, vowed to fight the charges.

"Don Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents last night in Los Angeles, where he was covering the Grammy awards," Mr. Lowell said in a statement on Friday. "Don has been a journalist for 30 years, and his constitutionally protected work in Minneapolis was no different than what he has always done."

Mr. Lowell added, "This unprecedented attack on the First Amendment and transparent attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration will not stand. Don will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court."

#1 | Posted by qcp at 2026-01-30 08:48 AM | Reply | Newsworthy 2

November is coming up and Donald is feeling the screws.

He has a lot of people he wants and needs to arrest.

An awful lot.

There's a List.

#2 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 09:00 AM | Reply

Don Lemon is in heaven right now. LOL!

#3 | Posted by fortfisher at 2026-01-30 09:07 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

via GIPHY

#4 | Posted by fortfisher at 2026-01-30 09:12 AM | Reply

So in about a month we'll be reading articles about yet another failure of DoJ to secure and indictment?

#5 | Posted by jpw at 2026-01-30 09:20 AM | Reply

Adam Parkhomenko
@adamparkhomenko.bsky.social
4m
So this administration has charged an independent Black journalist reporting in Minnesota but not two white agents who murdered two citizens

This is so typical for the racist-------------------.

#6 | Posted by reinheitsgebot at 2026-01-30 09:37 AM | Reply | Newsworthy 2

So in about a month we'll be reading articles about yet another failure of DoJ to secure and indictment?

#5 | Posted by jpw a

Or someone filing Habeas to find out where in the hell Lemon is?

#7 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 09:40 AM | Reply

There is no legal basis (based on what's required by the cited law - use of force or threatening force) for this to proceed. It is, however, a required step in creating a fascist regime. Two journalists were arrested, plus a third one a week or so agom(WaPo). This is a pattern.

Expect a press conference later from the Trump admin crowing about this and threatening other journalists, indirectly, to watch their step. This corrupt administration has already created a fascist-friendly press pool to cover it. This admin has already threatened broadcaster's licenses.

#8 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 09:51 AM | Reply | Newsworthy 2

The article never once mentions them actually securing an indictment against Lemon.

#9 | Posted by qcp at 2026-01-30 09:52 AM | Reply

required step in creating entrenching and strengthening a fascist regime

#10 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 09:52 AM | Reply

The article never once mentions them actually securing an indictment against Lemon.

Excellent point. is this just state sponsored intimidation with no basis, implemented by a lawless regime? The same lawless regime that seized voting records in GA that are sealed by a judge's order?

I have no idea how he is legally being held in jail, but he's in jail along with another journalist that was also at this protest.

RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES.

#11 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 09:57 AM | Reply

The article never once mentions them actually securing an indictment against Lemon.

The Federal Judge basically directed prosecutors to seek a grand jury indictment.

A source familiar with the matter said a grand jury was empaneled Thursday. The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security, were involved in the arrest, sources say.
www.cbsnews.com

#12 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 10:13 AM | Reply

I have no idea how he is legally being held in jail, but he's in jail along with another journalist that was also at this protest.

He should be in jail, he materially supported the protestors.
Not sure, but just having popularity and a camera doesn't make you a journalist.

There's no first amendment right to plan and break up a religious ceremony. Otherwise you give MAGAts the ability to break up Muslim prayer.

"Oh but I am a journalist ... " ... BS.

Do you guys even think about ramifications?

#13 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 10:16 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

Runt, your child-raping hero has 34 felony convictions.

#14 | Posted by reinheitsgebot at 2026-01-30 10:18 AM | Reply

The free speech bros must be so angry! Unless the free speech bros were lying and only ever cared about themselves

#15 | Posted by lee_the_agent at 2026-01-30 10:26 AM | Reply

#13 | Posted by oneironaut

"He should be in jail, he materially supported the protestors."

Tell us how.

"Not sure, but just having popularity and a camera doesn't make you a journalist."

Unless you want to break into daycares and film children, right?

#16 | Posted by Sycophant at 2026-01-30 10:31 AM | Reply

#13

It's trespassing. Trump likes a circus.

Did John Miller become an Al Qaeda member when he interviewed bin Laden in a cave in 1998?

No. Don Lemon did the same thing Miller did. He committed an act of journalism.

Do you guys ever think about precedent? History?

As Confucius said: "Soggy rice no taste nice!"

#17 | Posted by lee_the_agent at 2026-01-30 10:35 AM | Reply

The free speech bros must be so angry! Unless the free speech bros were lying and only ever cared about themselves

Remember those who used to tell you about a group of villains protecting powerful pedophiles and trying to take away American's freedoms, including their right to bear arms?

Well, THEY are the ones who today are protecting powerful pedophiles and trying to take away American's freedoms including their right to bear arms.

- Pedro X Molina

#18 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 10:44 AM | Reply

So-called journalists entered the Capitol on J6.

#19 | Posted by Petrous at 2026-01-30 10:44 AM | Reply

Do you guys even think about ramifications?

#13 | Posted by oneironaut

About as often as you meditate on what a dripping piece of green snot you are.

#20 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 11:37 AM | Reply

Free speech isn't a get out of jail free card. If so-called journalists violate, say, the FACE Act they are still potentially liable to be prosecuted and hiding behind their journalist label won't protect them from being charged. Now, in trial if the defense can make a plausible case that he was acting in the role of journalist he probably won't be convicted.

#21 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:37 AM | Reply

" So-called journalists entered the Capitol on J6.

#19 | POSTED BY PETROUS AT 2026-01-30 10:44 AM | FLAG: "

Bears repeating.

#22 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:38 AM | Reply

" Did John Miller become an Al Qaeda member when he interviewed bin Laden in a cave in 1998?

No. Don Lemon did the same thing Miller did. He committed an act of journalism."

That's an apples/pumpkins comparison.

#23 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:39 AM | Reply

" Unless you want to break into daycares and film children, right?

#16 | POSTED BY SYCOPHANT AT 2026-01-30 10:31 AM | REPLY | FLAG"

You sure do suck at equivalencies.

#24 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:40 AM | Reply

Free speech isn't a get out of jail free card.

#21 | Posted by BellRinger

Well, of course---You support Lemon's arrest. Even though he has already been cut legally loose.

Free speech is threatened by people like you.

#25 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 11:44 AM | Reply

Yav,

Question: do you regard James O'Keefe and Nick Shirley as journalists?

#26 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:47 AM | Reply

" Well, of course---You support Lemon's arrest. Even though he has already been cut legally loose."

By a lower court. The DOJ either got a grand jury indictment (unlikely) or some other higher level judge to issue a probable cause warrant. The fact that he was arrested at night (probably resulting in an overnight in the clink) and publicly is spiteful as hell and right out of the Biden DOJ handbook. Presumably we will find out today how they obtained an arrest warrant.

#27 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 11:56 AM | Reply

Presumably we will find out today how they obtained an arrest warrant.

#27 | Posted by BellRinger

Yeah, well....

Keep on presuming. It's what you're good at.

#28 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 12:00 PM | Reply

" Keep on presuming. It's what you're good at.

#28 | POSTED BY ZED AT 2026-01-30 12:00 PM | FLAG: "

Lemon is being represented by Abbe Lowell, a very well known counselor. In the absence of a grand jury indictment or a probable cause warrant, this arrest would BL blasted into the stratosphere already.

#29 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 12:11 PM | Reply

the FACE Act
As I said in #8, Lemon didn't violate the FACE Act.

Question: do you regard James O'Keefe and Nick Shirley as journalists?
Lemon has a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

Jame O'Keefe does not. He has a degree in philosophy. He went to law school for a year and dropped out.
Nick Shirley (who I know nothing about) appears to have no degree in journalism. He has no degree at all, except from high school.

I do not consider either O'Keefe or Shirley, nor have I ever considered O'Keefe, journalists.

There is no doubt Don Lemon is a journalist.

Why do you ask?

#30 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 12:39 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 2

Remember when Trump called the free press the Enemy Of The State?
Here we are.

Congratulations, Republicans.
You Built That!

#31 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 12:47 PM | Reply

#29 | Posted by BellRinger

Everything flies completely over your head.

The only one who thinks Donald Trump wants to or will follow the law is you.

Don Lemon is another martyr for freedom. Thank God he's not dead yet.

#32 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-30 12:47 PM | Reply

The fact that he was arrested at night (probably resulting in an overnight in the clink) and publicly is spiteful as hell and right out of the Biden DOJ handbook.
#27 | Posted by BellRinger

You're saying President Biden invented arresting people in public after sundown.
You're actually saying that.

Biden invented Sundown Towns.
That's what you believe.

#33 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 12:53 PM | Reply

Presumably we will find out today how they obtained an arrest warrant.

#27 | Posted by BellRinger

If the past is prologue then presumably it was along the lines of: "Issue an arrest warrant immediately or find another job."

#34 | Posted by donnerboy at 2026-01-30 01:01 PM | Reply

"it is a lesson for the IRS not to be weaponized"

Because only the Mad King is allowed to do that?

Trumpy plans to make it easier for the IRS Criminal Investigation division to launch inquiries into left-leaning organizations and Democratic donors, with a specific list of potential targets including billionaire George Soros.

Trumpy has pursued a plan to share sensitive tax data, specifically the addresses of around 700,000 undocumented immigrants, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for potential deportation purposes.

The Trumpy administration has also reportedly threatened the tax-exempt status of institutions like Harvard University, an action critics argue is an attempt to use the IRS to punish perceived political enemies.

The more you know ...

#35 | Posted by donnerboy at 2026-01-30 01:08 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

"it is a lesson for the IRS not to be weaponized"

That poster is, as all MAGATs, Perpetual Victims, even is its solely from their own fevered imaginations. Without feeling persecuted, their lives would have no meaning.

#36 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 01:13 PM | Reply

#35 - as always - accuse the Democrats of what you are planning.

#37 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 01:14 PM | Reply

Arrested for what?

Reporting on group of people protesting a Nazi pastor?

Republicans have fully embraced authoritarianism.

All so a fat orange pedophile can loot America and avoid the consequences of his actions.

Don Lemon is guilty of being Black in America.

#38 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-30 01:29 PM | Reply

Politics is rough.

After everything Trump has faced, it's no surprise he'd push back when he can. My view is political, not personal loyalty.

Don Lemon says he was just reporting, but when a journalist moves into opinion and apparent protest involvement inside a church, it weakens his defense. Prosecutors argue that FACE laws were violated.

That's Lemon's mistake.

#39 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 01:33 PM | Reply

My view is political, not personal loyalty.
#39 | POSTED BY BULLJOHNSON

When you post obvious lies like this, do you actually believe you're fooling anyone int believing you?

Go wipe Trump's ------ off your chin, whore.

#40 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-30 01:35 PM | Reply

Clown,

"When you post obvious lies like this, do you actually believe you're fooling anyone int believing you?"

You live in a culture of lies.

Its no wonder thats the first thing you'd think.

#41 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 01:48 PM | Reply

"You live in a culture of lies."

Don't we all? Fox News sued and won for their Right To Lie.

Your culture is vague, unsubstantiated, baseless accusations. In Jesus Name, Amen.

#42 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 01:51 PM | Reply

"You live in a culture of lies."

www.youtube.com

#43 | Posted by eberly at 2026-01-30 01:55 PM | Reply

Snoofy,

As if you actually watch Fox.

You'd be surprised how often I hear real legitimate stories and news I don't hear elsewhere.

Then I watch as little of CNN and it's anti-Trump propaganda.

Keep telling yourself that.

#44 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 02:06 PM | Reply

"You'd be surprised how often I hear real legitimate stories and news I don't hear elsewhere"

Riiiiiiight.

And Haitians were eating domesticated animals.

#45 | Posted by Danforth at 2026-01-30 02:32 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 3

"As if you actually watch Fox."

I don't watch TV "news" at all. Maybe some sports. Star Trek reruns. Whatever old western is on Grit.

"You'd be surprised how often I hear real legitimate stories and news I don't hear elsewhere."

No, I wouldn't. I get those posted on my Facebook feed from the scared old white men I know.

#46 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 03:19 PM | Reply

44

First step, admit you have a problem. Watching TV news. Just stop.

I quit watching TV news probably 20 years ago. I just can't stand some talking head preaching at me.

#47 | Posted by et_al at 2026-01-30 03:20 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

It's adorable watching you all talk to BullJohnson like he's a reasonable human being and not just another braindead deplorable Trumping MAGA fascist.

#48 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-30 03:57 PM | Reply

Don Lemon reported on a protest and has been arrested.

Meanwhile, anyone know where the men responsible for murdering Reene Good and Alex Pretti are?

Deplorable Trumping MAGA fascists have forever scarred this nation.

#49 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-30 04:03 PM | Reply

Prosecutors argue that FACE laws were violated.

That's Lemon's mistake.

Thanks for giving us all an example of fccked up your reasoning is, and your trusted sources are.
I understand well in advance how you are clueless about what I just said.

#50 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 04:38 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

"Prosecutors argue that FACE laws were violated."

^
Dumbest ---- I've ever heard from this administration in the past five minutes.

#51 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 04:40 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

If the same number of MAGA hat agitators barged into a mosque or a PP facility with Andy angus in tow and behaved identically the reaction from the MSM would be nearly 180 degrees opposite as to what we have been seeing with this.

#52 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-30 04:49 PM | Reply | Funny: 1

Politics is rough.
After everything Trump has faced, it's no surprise he'd push back when he can.

---- you, Bill.

#53 | Posted by jpw at 2026-01-30 04:53 PM | Reply

If the same number of MAGA hat agitators barged into a mosque

Nothing would happen.

Less would happen than happened at the capitol building where thousands of irate MAGA hatted insurrectionists waved Trump flags and assaulted the building.

Shut up you pathetic loser.

#54 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-30 05:07 PM | Reply

If the same number of MAGA hat agitators barged into a mosque
#52 | Posted by BellRinger

If that were to happen, there's no way MAGA wouldn't smash things up and smear poop on the walls.

Most likely outcome is MAGA just guns everybody down.
Like when a MAGA attacked a Mormon Church in Minnesota last summer, don't you remember?
en.wikipedia.org

#55 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 05:14 PM | Reply

Snoofy,

I watch and read different political angles.

I can tell you there is oftentimes important news stories on Fox I never see elsewhere.

That's what ive seen.

Nothing to be argued about. Thats just something ive seen.

#56 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 05:37 PM | Reply

"the reaction from the MSM"

Are we still pretending that Fox isn't MSM?

#57 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-30 05:44 PM | Reply

"I can tell you there is oftentimes important news stories on Fox I never see elsewhere."

"important"

Run one past me.

#58 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 06:00 PM | Reply

I can tell you there is oftentimes important news stories on Fox I never see elsewhere.

so "Important" it preempts actual factual and relevant news.

#59 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 06:03 PM | Reply

The fact that he was arrested by ICE and not federal Marshalls makes the arrest very gestapo-ish.

#60 | Posted by fresno500 at 2026-01-30 06:44 PM | Reply

"the arrest very gestapo-ish."

That's a feature, not a bug.

#61 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 06:53 PM | Reply | Funny: 1

The article never once mentions them actually securing an indictment against Lemon.

#9 | Posted by qcp

It's a bad article.

#62 | Posted by john_savage1 at 2026-01-30 07:03 PM | Reply

> The DOJ either got a grand jury indictment

There's not an 'either'. How do libs think he was arrested without an indictment?
It's not a secret.

James Blair
@JamesBlairUSA
Any "news" outlet failing to make clear in their headline that Don Lemon was indicted by a federal grand jury is intentionally misleading the public.

#63 | Posted by john_savage1 at 2026-01-30 07:10 PM | Reply

Here:

US leftoid "journalist" fired from nighttime cable gig now seeking relevance as independent podcaster/streamer. He "reported" on leftist mob barging into church disrupting worshippers but was part of incitement to go in. He's been arrested and will likely be made an example of. He'd also be the first one screaming if Christians did this to Muslims even though latter would throw him off a building.

#64 | Posted by john_savage1 at 2026-01-30 07:16 PM | Reply

The fact that he was arrested by ICE and not federal Marshalls makes the arrest very gestapo-ish.

#60 | POSTED BY FRESNO500 AT 2026-01-30 06:44 PM | FLAG:

Racist ----

#65 | Posted by lfthndthrds at 2026-01-30 07:19 PM | Reply

The transphobe speaks.

#66 | Posted by Alexandrite at 2026-01-30 07:20 PM | Reply

Tell us how.

He coordinated with them, he knew where they were going and what they were going to do.

He stopped his "stream" so they could mention what they were doing, then he rode along with them knowing they would commit a crime.
He entered the facility when asked to leave and tried to interview the pastor, he was actively participating in the crime..

This is no different than J6 "journalist" being arrested for standing outside the capital reporting.

He'd also be the first one screaming if Christians did this to Muslims even though latter would throw him off a building.
#64 | POSTED BY JOHN_SAVAGE1

This is how ------- stupid Lemon's defenders are... .just ------- idiots.

Wait until NickS goes in to a mosque and disturbs their service in the name of "journalism".


#67 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 07:33 PM | Reply


That's a feature, not a bug.
#61 | POSTED BY SNOOFY A

You literally wouldn't know the difference.

#68 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 07:33 PM | Reply

This is a violation of the FACE act, which prohibits the use of force, threat of force, or physical obstruction to injure, intimidate, or interfere with anyone obtaining or providing reproductive health services, or exercising their right to religious freedom at a place of worship.
This was also a violation of the KKK Act, which makes it a federal crime to conspire to deprive others of their constitutional rights (free exercise of religion).
So even if Don Lemon wasn't actively directly involved in the intimidation of church goers, the video he was livestreaming before they went to the church makes it clear that he was definitely part of the group and involved in the planning and preparation beforehand. Being part of the conspiracy means that he is just as culpable for the crimes committed by the others in furtherance of that conspiracy, even if he wasn't directly involved.

#69 | Posted by john_savage1 at 2026-01-30 07:36 PM | Reply

Snoofy,

"Run one past me"

Don't care to convince you.

And it's not because I'm lying.

Just simply you aren't important.

#70 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 07:42 PM | Reply

This is so similar to the James and Comey arrests.

Some of you will do backflips to try to make the point this arrest is legit. Sure, you can twist the law to fit a lot of instances. Two judges shot it down. Finally, they used a grand jury.

Much like the James and Comey cases, this will get cut loose.

Lemon is literally in the church, heard saying "I am here as a reporter". In fact, that is what he is.

The bigger picture is, Trump keeps losing ground as November looms.

#71 | Posted by brass30 at 2026-01-30 07:56 PM | Reply

interfering with people's right to peacefully assembly and right to worship.

the dumb bastard gave us his "i'm a journalist" BS when he sided with the a-wholes

#72 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 07:57 PM | Reply

just like the dem humps lying media gave up their credibility when they chose sides.

NEVER EVER NEVER to be believed again.......no matte who "approves" the sources.

#73 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 07:59 PM | Reply

Stupid lemons actions were so poorly times that I'm wondering if he's not a republican plant.

#74 | Posted by Tor at 2026-01-30 08:06 PM | Reply

breaking news........TEENAGE GIRL ABDUCTED IN EL PASO TEXAS.

hopefully for "you people" it was by an illegal...

that way "you people" won't have to give a GD F / G ...chit about her being raped

and murdered.

most likely the first reports will be that it's a white male with a red hat on....as usual.

then we'll find out it was a female black trans with a nose ring.

#75 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 08:10 PM | Reply

Lemon Scent Dawn is a national treasure.

Trump really crossed a line here.

#76 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 08:25 PM | Reply

Don't care to convince you.

I'm calling your bluff
You ain't principled, you just performin'
One fact and you run to the fence
You're hollerin' loud
But it's talking points you been borrowin'
And all that you need is
Just a shred of good sense

#77 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 08:36 PM | Reply

EXPERTS WARN OF SLIPPERY SLOPE IN WAKE OF LEMON'S ARREST.

xperts Warn Arresting Journalists Could Be Slippery Slope To Arresting Politicians And Other People Who Deserve It

What's next? We start rounding up undocumented migrants or arresting people for murder and rape?" Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said. "Welcome to Trump's America!"

n response to the current unrest in the country, former Secretary of State and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton published an op-ed in the New York Times discrediting all laws she doesn't like. "I have long held that no one is above the law except for me," she wrote, "but that might be changing, and it's an utter disgrace. It's not what our founders intended."

#78 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 08:53 PM | Reply

CHILLING

---if they can arrest Lemon for something as simple as breaking the law..

imagine what they can do to you !!!

#79 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 08:55 PM | Reply

Lemon is literally in the church, heard saying "I am here as a reporter".

Lemon literally saying "after we do this operation"
x.com

#80 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 09:06 PM | Reply


Trump really crossed a line here.
#76 | POSTED BY SNOOFY

Biden should have educated you, but you couldn't "see" it. You're blinded by your partisanship.

Stephen Horn was a credentialed journalist on 1/6.
The Judge in his case -- he went to trial -- didn't let that evidence in because it was "irrelevant" to whether his conduct was illegal.

Seems like if we're going to use the same measure, its not important if Don Lemon was a "journalist".

#81 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-30 09:07 PM | Reply

Lemon literally saying "after we do this operation"
x.com
#80 | Posted by oneironaut
Stephen Horn was a credentialed journalist on 1/6.
The Judge in his case -- he went to trial -- didn't let that evidence in because it was "irrelevant" to whether his conduct was illegal.
Seems like if we're going to use the same measure, its not important if Don Lemon was a "journalist".
#81 | Posted by oneironaut

"After we do this operation, you'll see it live."

It sounds to me like the "we" he is referring to is himself, his camera man and others on his produciton crew. Contrast that with the Stephen Horn's actions on 1/6:

FBI agents say Horn walked over a fence on the ground with a "No trespassing" sign before walking into the Capitol building during the attack and making his way to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office.

Horn can be heard in the video chanting "U.S.A." with others in the Capitol building, according to the FBI.

spectrumlocalnews.com

#82 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-30 09:14 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 2

Lemon is literally in the church, heard saying "I am here as a reporter".

Lemon literally saying "after we do this operation"
x.com

#80 | Posted by oneironaut

These people don't care about little girls raped and murdered....why would they care about

the rule of law..

HE WAS TRESPASSING ON PRIVATE PROPERTY.....along with the other disgusting GD a-wholes...

and people are guaranteed the right to worship without some dick loving

fired employee of CNN rushing in with the a-wholes.

#83 | Posted by shrimptacodan at 2026-01-30 09:24 PM | Reply

It's possible that Lemon didn't know in advance the operation he was covering was going to involve barging inside the church during a service, but it was really poor judgement call on his part to follow them inside.

#84 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-30 09:36 PM | Reply

"follow them inside."

That's illegal?
I didn't realize churches weren't generally open to the public, and merely entering one is grounds to be charged with a Federal offense.
I've walked into countless churches in my life, through an unlocked door, without any kind of "No Trespassing" sign.
I don't think I was committing a crime.

#85 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 09:57 PM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

re: #74 Tor

I agree with the poor timing, but right wing propaganda outlets will find and make up literally anything to distract from the actual bad things Trump and his goons are doing and have done. And MAGAs will lap it up, like their braindead rabid fervor with Somalis

#86 | Posted by hamburglar at 2026-01-30 10:03 PM | Reply

Snoofy,

"I didn't realize churches weren't generally open to the public"

How many times do you need to see "FACE" before anything sinks in?

#87 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 10:25 PM | Reply

Shrimp,

Hey...did you need to include a gay insult running down Lemon?

Just don't include that when you attack Lemon.

Yea...he even managed to be too sleazy for CNN.

Leave the gay stuff out.

#88 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 10:34 PM | Reply

I told you so

America should have taken my advice and had Piggy arrested on January 21, 2021, flown to Gitmo and subjected to a drum head trial and subjected him to the fate all traitors deserve.

Biden could have then dared the republicans to do anything about it.

He should have then stripped Barret, Kavanaugh and Gorsuch from the court and replaced them with 3 new Justices

And dared republicans to do anything about it

Piggy had negligible if any legislative achievements from 2017 to 2021 so there would be little to get rid of there

Biden then could have gone before the nation and said

"I did this for the benefit of the country. Piggy had numerous co-conspirators including many in Congress. If they pursue Impeachment I will throw their asses in Gitmo. If they don't I will not seek re-election in 2024."

Instead our nation is dying a swift death

Thanks magat scum.

Debate the indefensible while masked federal goons gun us down in the streets, journalists are arrested over --------, Piggy violates a state's sovereignty over elections, ignores an attack on a Congressman, seemingly tries to kill the 2nd Amendment, terrorizes a US city and sues the government for $10 Billion.

And that was literally just some of the stuff from the past week.

The week before he nearly started a war with NATO and stole Venezuelan's natural resources and killed some people, for the ----- and giggles.

#89 | Posted by truthhurts at 2026-01-30 10:47 PM | Reply

FACE "prohibits the use of force, threats of force, or physical obstruction to injure, intimidate, or interfere"

When did Don Lemon do that?

#90 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 10:48 PM | Reply

Snoofy,

"When did Don Lemon do that?"

Nothing you paid any attention to, I'm sure.

You have teeny tiny tunnel vision.

#91 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 11:01 PM | Reply

#91 - you're ignorant and a liar, BillJohnson. Or you're ignorant and stupid. Two judges threw this out before DOJ in a vindictive prosecution went around both the judges and convened a grand jury so they could do this. This isn't going to get any conviction. There is no violation of FACE.

This was done 100% to intimidate all journalists. All you have to do is look at the timeline and failures of the DOJ.

I'm serious - how can you be this dumb? How can you ignore reality so completely?

#92 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 11:12 PM | Reply

Nothing you paid any attention to, I'm sure.

You gonna post what he did that violates the FACE Act or give us your
"Don't care to convince you.
And it's not because I'm lying.
Just simply you aren't important."

bullshht?

#93 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-30 11:15 PM | Reply

Yav,

Nope...you're information is incomplete.

#94 | Posted by BillJohnson at 2026-01-30 11:28 PM | Reply

"follow them inside."

News reporters going to where the news is happening?!?

STOP THE PRESSES!!!

#95 | Posted by Danforth at 2026-01-30 11:30 PM | Reply

Nope...you're information is incomplete.
#94 | Posted by BillJohnson

Then complete it. Educate us.
Too much to ask?

#96 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:33 PM | Reply

"This was done 100% to intimidate all journalists."

And all black people.

It's a twofer.

#97 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:35 PM | Reply

"News reporters going to where the news is happening?!?"

Where do you draw the line? If a group of protesters decide to rob a bank, should a reporter just tag along, or should they take a step back once they realize something illegal is going on? How about if they're storming a restricted government area?

#98 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-30 11:37 PM | Reply

"After we do this operation

Ah yes, spoken/written like a true trial lawyer.

Thanks, Gal for the actual context: ""After we do this operation, you'll see it live."

#99 | Posted by brass30 at 2026-01-30 11:38 PM | Reply

"(your) information is incomplete."

Do you have any proof Lemon conspired with the protestors? If so, I'll agree he crossed the line.

But if he was merely tipped off, and followed the group in, that's allowed.

I'd also agree Lemon crossed the line if he conducted himself as a partisan. Instead, he sought interviews with protestors and congregants alike, without inserting advocacy or diatribes.

If anyone has footage contradicting my points, please post them.

#100 | Posted by Danforth at 2026-01-30 11:41 PM | Reply

Where do you draw the line? If a group of protesters decide to rob a bank, should a reporter just tag along, or should they take a step back once they realize something illegal is going on?

Pretty good question.

How about if ICE is murdering an American citizen?

#101 | Posted by brass30 at 2026-01-30 11:43 PM | Reply

"If a group of protesters decide to rob a bank, should a reporter just tag along, or should they take a step back once they realize something illegal is going on?"

I'd say there's a magnitude of difference between robbing a bank, and disrupting a Sunday service, wouldn't you?

Any better comparisons?

#102 | Posted by Danforth at 2026-01-30 11:44 PM | Reply

Who knew churches were private property!!???

#103 | Posted by brass30 at 2026-01-30 11:46 PM | Reply

"Where do you draw the line?"

Putting your, or someone else's safety at risk.

Participating in a bank robbery can get you shot. Interrupting a religious service can get you tossed out before you get the blessing.

#104 | Posted by Danforth at 2026-01-30 11:47 PM | Reply

"If a group of protesters decide to rob a bank"

They would then be a group of bank robbers.

#105 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:47 PM | Reply

"Where do you draw the line?"

Not where Putin draws it, where the ----- Riot members got two years in Gulag for interrupting a religious service.

Where do you draw it? Same as Putin?

#106 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:50 PM | Reply

Danforth with many relevant points on Lemon's behavior.

Again, Trump's DOJ going after individuals based on politics instead of the law of the land.

Think if a FOX reporter was in that church, he'd be arrested?

#107 | Posted by brass30 at 2026-01-30 11:51 PM | Reply

More context:

"These are resistance protesters that are planning an operation that we're gonna follow them on. I can't tell you exactly what they're doing, but it's called Operation Pull-Up, and it's Nekima Armstrong, and she has been doing this since George Floyd, Dante Wright, and others, where they surprise people, catch them off-guard, and hold them to account. So that's what we're doing here, and then after that, after we do this operation, you'll see it live. These operations are surprise operations, again I can't tell you where..."

x.com

#108 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-30 11:51 PM | Reply

"How about if they're storming a restricted government area?"

NY Times had a reporter follow J6'ers onto the floor of the House (or was it the Senate).
I don't believe that reporter was charged with anything.

Was that bad? Should the reporter have been charged?

#109 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:51 PM | Reply

"More context"

Telling somebody else what you're going to do doesn't make them an accessory.

#110 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-30 11:52 PM | Reply

Shrimp,
Hey...did you need to include a gay insult running down Lemon?
Just don't include that when you attack Lemon.
Yea...he even managed to be too sleazy for CNN.
Leave the gay stuff out.
#88 | Posted by BillJohnson

BJ schooling Babbles on DR etiquette. Where's that "ridiculous" flag?

If you want to talk about journalists trespassing where they really didn't belong, I refer you to Geraldo Rivera's unannounced walk-in at the Willowbrook mental institution in New York in the early 70s. Made his rep, which he later rightfully lost, but it was balls-y as hell and had a great positive impact on mental health treatment in this country, even if Reagan used it to ramp up US homelessness later on.

#111 | Posted by Dbt2 at 2026-01-31 12:15 AM | Reply

Now do abortion clinics or if your really brave interrupt up a service at a mosque.

#112 | Posted by visitor_ at 2026-01-31 12:16 AM | Reply

"How about if ICE is murdering an American citizen?"

Suppose a reporter gets a tip that ICE is planning to murder someone. Should they just tag along so they can cover the reactions, not warning anyone in advance?

#113 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-31 12:39 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

*** Florida Gubernatorial Candidate: Don Lemon Should be Publicly Executed ***

Link: x.com

#114 | Posted by C0RI0LANUS at 2026-01-31 12:55 AM | Reply

interrupt up a service at a mosque.
#112 | Posted by visitor_

Why not a church?
Asking for Dylan Roof.

#115 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-31 01:01 AM | Reply

"Suppose a reporter gets a tip that ICE is planning to murder someone."

You seem to be willing to discuss anything but the actual topic.

#116 | Posted by snoofy at 2026-01-31 01:02 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

"Don has been a journalist for 30 years"

Now that's just funny as hell right there.....I don't care who you are!

A journalist....ROFL

#117 | Posted by Javelin at 2026-01-31 01:33 AM | Reply

For those of you who have the time, here is a legal breakdown of the charges against Lemon based upon what is known thus far.

" A Deep Dive into the Lemon Indictment: Are Lemon's First Amendment Rights Being (Unlawfully) Squeezed?"

twitchy.com

#118 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-31 01:47 AM | Reply

Don Lemon is arrested for being black in America, while the people who executed Renee Good and Alex Pretti are being protected.

All of this to distract from the fact Trump raped children.

#119 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-31 02:26 AM | Reply

@nerd.speech

The Trump administration didn't just arrest Don Lemon. They arrested Don Lemon after two judges refused to sign an arrest warrant due to a lack of evidence. That's an important detail to remember.

#120 | Posted by ClownShack at 2026-01-31 03:05 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

Trump raped children.

#119 | Posted by ClownShack

Yes, and despite the full resources of the Federal government to hide it, it sure looks like he did.

#121 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-31 06:04 AM | Reply

A journalist....ROFL

#117 | Posted by Javelin

I have the same reaction when I hear "Trump, a president".

#122 | Posted by Zed at 2026-01-31 06:06 AM | Reply

The Grand Jury indictment
d3i6fh83elv35t.cloudfront.net

#123 | Posted by Miranda7 at 2026-01-31 08:03 AM | Reply

"CNN's S.E. Cupp Reveals, I Do Not Like Don Lemon'"

I do not like him in a bag
I do not like this short black fag

#124 | Posted by THEBULL at 2026-01-31 08:05 AM | Reply | Funny: 1

"Again, Trump's DOJ going after individuals based on politics instead of the law of the land."

All the more reason why what Lemon apparently did is really dumb. It's possible he was set up, and he walked right into it.

#125 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-31 08:37 AM | Reply

Compare to the prosecution of Steve Baker, an I depend t journalist arrested covering Jan 6 riots
extremism.gwu.edu

#126 | Posted by Miranda7 at 2026-01-31 08:57 AM | Reply

twitchy.com

#118 | Posted by BellRinger

Hard to believe anybody is stupid enough to post absolute garbage like that and expect anyone with a brain to read past the 1st couple of paragraphs.

But...there it is.

More garbage from stinkerbell.

#127 | Posted by Angrydad at 2026-01-31 08:58 AM | Reply

"These are resistance protesters that are planning an operation that we're gonna follow them on. I can't tell you exactly what they're doing, but it's called Operation Pull-Up, and it's Nekima Armstrong, and she has been doing this since George Floyd, Dante Wright, and others, where they surprise people, catch them off-guard, and hold them to account. So that's what we're doing here, and then after that, after we do this operation, you'll see it live. These operations are surprise operations, again I can't tell you where..."
x.com
#108 | Posted by sentinel

Thanks for the greater context.

#128 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 09:05 AM | Reply

Don Lemon is in heaven right now. LOL!

#3 | POSTED BY FORTFISHER AT 2026-01-30 09:07 AM | REPLY | FLAG:

I hear he's already dropped the soap 37 times.

#129 | Posted by lfthndthrds at 2026-01-31 09:31 AM | Reply

"This was done 100% to intimidate all journalists."

And all black people.

It's a twofer.

#97 | POSTED BY SNOOFY AT 2026-01-30 11:35 PM | FLAG:

Just stop. You outed yourself years ago. You don't give 2 schits about black people.

Remind us again who gets the promotions in the military ... .

#130 | Posted by lfthndthrds at 2026-01-31 09:39 AM | Reply

Where'd BillJohnson go? Isn't he going to elucidate us all? Fill in all the information we're supposedly missing?

Where do you draw the line? If a group of protesters decide to rob a bank, should a reporter just tag along, or should they take a step back once they realize something illegal is going on? How about if they're storming a restricted government area?

The journalist should legally report on what's happening, gather information, film (based on law - such as non-interference with first responders, etc.), and should be immune from prosecution and retribution. Like those covering the murder of Pretti and Good.

Unless Lemon conspired or aided and abetted he should not have been charged or spent a night in jail. Plain and simple.

Why this is vindictive, has nothing to do with Lemon's coverage of this protest:
1) Initial attempts to charge Lemon were rejected twice.
2) DOJ convened a grand jury because they couldn't arrest Lemon otherwise.
3) DOJ already pre-announced they wanted to get Lemon for anything they could and made it clear enough that his attorney, Abbe Lowell, sent a letter to DOJ saying if they intend to take Lemon in then they should contact the attorney and he will make sure it's all handled peacefully and orderly. DOJ refused to answer and obviously didn't want that. They wanted a show.
4) DOJ waited until the Grammy's and his arrival in Los Angeles
5) DOJ waited until 11 PM at night to force him to spend the night in jail (no judge until the morning)
6) DOJ sent an armada after him with masks and guns - to serve a warrant which ONE person could do.
7) Both Lemon and Georgia Fort are black journalists.
8) With the message sent to all journalists, especially ones of color, Lemon was released from jail on his own recognizance. Despite DOJ demanding restrictions on his travel and activities his planned trip to France is allowed.
9) Georgia Fort was similarly released, as were the other two.
11) All were persons were black.
12) Pam Blondi was out there immediately crowing about how this was a "coordinated attack" - Ms. Bondi has zero credibility.

#131 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 09:46 AM | Reply

Compare to the prosecution of Steve Baker, an I depend t journalist arrested covering Jan 6 riots
extremism.gwu.edu
#126 | Posted by Miranda

Hmm, seems a stretch to call Baker a journalist. A wannabe journalist at best. A citizen journalist maybe:

At the time, the defendant was a music teacher and also a live streamer: he broadcast a show through YouTube and other social media sites. It appears the defendant was an aspiring right-wing media personality, and that he planned to broadcast whatever happened on January 6, 2021.

That said, he seems to have done a really good job livestreaming what was going on that day:

His camera fully captures the noise of the crowd and, from time to time, clearly captures
discussions of violence. About four minutes after his entry, the defendant recorded other rioters
talking about breaking into parts of the Capitol. (Exhibit 7.) About five minutes after that, he
recorded a woman comment "I still wanted a couple strands of [Speaker] Pelosi's hair," and a man
replied, "Fuck, I want her head, not just her hair."

#132 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 09:46 AM | Reply

Baker pleaded guilty to:
Unlawful entry of a restricted building or grounds.
Disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds.
Disorderly conduct in a Capitol building.
Parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

Not what Lemon did. How that for a comparison?

Should/could Baker have fought it and come out as "not guilty"? Who knows. He didn't so we're left with what he was convicted of. He's been pardoned by the biggest criminal ever elected to the Presidency, though. The one who instigated the J6 insurrection.

#133 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 09:57 AM | Reply

There were hundreds of reporters in the Capitol January 6th.

You can see people walking around with their phones out recording it all.

There were a lot of free lancers gleefully inside where they legally weren't supposed to be.

Some reporters claimed they were afraid while in the capitol.

Really? Theres video of officers trying to stop people, yet the 'supposed media' walked right by.

Then, there's reporters walking in with fellow citizens as the guards walked along with them.

Someone should just start a business, hire millions of freelancers, and everyone claim freedom of the press.

#134 | Posted by Petrous at 2026-01-31 10:06 AM | Reply

" A citizen journalist maybe:"

Which is what Lemon is at the moment. He doesn't work for any news outlet.

#135 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-31 10:07 AM | Reply

AI:

Freedom of the press does not grant journalists immunity from generally applicable laws, meaning reporters can be held liable for trespassing on private property while gathering news. While the First Amendment protects the right to report, it does not allow entering private property without permission, even for public interest stories.

Key Principles: Press vs. Trespass
No Special Immunity: The Supreme Court has ruled that the press must abide by the same laws as citizens, meaningtrespass laws apply equally to journalists.
Private Property Restrictions: Journalists must have permission to enter private homes, businesses, or properties, including churches.

Public vs. Private Spaces: News gathering is generally protected in public places like sidewalks and parks, but not on private land.

Law Enforcement Access: Journalists may follow law enforcement onto private property during emergencies, but if ordered to leave by a property owner, they must comply to avoid liability.

Legal Consequences: Violating these laws can result in criminal trespass charges or civil lawsuits (e.g., Le Mistral, Inc. v. CBS).

Key Distinctions
Publicly Owned Property: Access is generally allowed in areas of public buildings intended for public access
.
Implied Consent: Often assumed for public areas but can be revoked by authorities or owners.

News Coverage Context: Even if the intent is reporting, illegal entry remains actionable.

While journalists may be allowed in certain situations by consent of authorities, they must be aware that trespassing is a significant legal risk in news gathering.

#136 | Posted by Petrous at 2026-01-31 10:09 AM | Reply

Le Mistral, Inc. v. Columbia Broadcasting System, 61 A.D.2d 491 (N.Y. App. Div. 1978), is a landmark New York case holding that the First Amendment does not protect news organizations from liability for trespass. A CBS crew entered a restaurant without permission to film a story, resulting in a ruling that journalists are not immune from torts committed during news gathering.

#137 | Posted by Petrous at 2026-01-31 10:12 AM | Reply

"Not what Lemon did. How that for a comparison?"

If you're going to demand that J6 rioters be held responsible for any federal laws they knowingly violated (and you should), then you can't hold others to a different standard just because it's a different law they may have broken.

A bigger question is what exactly did Lemon achieve by going in with the criminals that couldn't have been done without disrupting a religious service? Couldn't they have confronted the pastor when he was walking on the street or somewhere else? Basically, all he's done is helped Trump distract from what his ICE thugs have been doing.

#138 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-31 10:12 AM | Reply

If you're going to demand that J6 rioters be held responsible for any federal laws they knowingly violated (and you should), then you can't hold others to a different standard just because it's a different law they may have broken.

I didn't do that, though. Check your premise.

#139 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:15 AM | Reply

" A citizen journalist maybe:"

Which is what Lemon is at the moment. He doesn't work for any news outlet.

So dishonest, even after it's been spelled out. You call anyone a journalist if they feed your confirmation bias. That's a fundamental problem.

#140 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:17 AM | Reply

Petrous - what's your point?
I believe we all know that journalists can't violate the law. I already said that. That's the fundamental problem with using the FACE Act against Lemon.

Re: Baker..
Throwing in nebulous "others" and trying to one charge "trespass" is the same as what Baker pleaded guilt to "Disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, Disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, Parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building" appears to be a deliberate attempt at conflation.

#141 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:23 AM | Reply

Sentinel asks A bigger question is what exactly did Lemon achieve by going in with the criminals that couldn't have been done without disrupting a religious service? Couldn't they have confronted the pastor when he was walking on the street or somewhere else?

He reported on what was happening. We all need reporters and journalists to do that. He didn't disturb the service but interviewed people who were at the service. I thought the interviews were quite good and got at how those parishioners felt with the interruption/demonstration. I said at the time I wished this hadn't happened at a church.

I wish the right-wing nutters hadn't assassinated those they targeted in the middle of church services, too.

#142 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:27 AM | Reply

That's the fundamental problem with using the FACE Act against Lemon.
Meaning Lemon did not violate the FACE Act, so that part of the case is ridiculous.

#143 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:29 AM | Reply

" A citizen journalist maybe:"
Which is what Lemon is at the moment. He doesn't work for any news outlet.
#135 | Posted by BellRinger

Putting a music teacher and wannabe a rightwing media personality in the same cateogory a nationally known journalist who used to work for CNN in the same category is ludicrous, and you know it. I'd say nice try, but really it's just lame:

Don Renaldo Lemon-Clark (born March 1, 1966) is an American television journalist best known for being a host on CNN from 2014 until 2023. He anchored weekend news programs on local television stations in Alabama and Pennsylvania during his early days as a journalist. Lemon worked as a news correspondent for NBC on its programming, such as Today and NBC Nightly News.

Lemon is also a recipient of an Edward R. Murrow Award in 2002 for his coverage of the capture of the Washington, D.C. snipers. He also received three regional Emmy Awards for his special report on real estate in Chicago and a business feature on Craigslist.

He joined CNN in 2006, also as a correspondent and later achieved prominence as the presenter of Don Lemon Tonight from 2014 to 2022. He most recently served as a co-host of CNN This Morning, alongside Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow. After several on-air controversies and reports of alleged decades-long instances of misogyny, he was fired by CNN in April 2023.

en.wikipedia.org

#144 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 10:30 AM | Reply

*in the same cateogory as a nationally known journalist

#145 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 10:31 AM | Reply

A bigger question is what exactly did Lemon achieve by going in with the criminals that couldn't have been done without disrupting a religious service? Couldn't they have confronted the pastor when he was walking on the street or somewhere else? Basically, all he's done is helped Trump distract from what his ICE thugs have been doing.
#138 | Posted by sentinel

I think the protesters and Lemon should all have stayed outside of the church. They could have brought attention to the ICE pastor just as effectively without, as you say, giving Trump a way to "Trump distract from what his ICE thugs have been doing."

#146 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 10:36 AM | Reply | Newsworthy 1

Putting a music teacher and wannabe a rightwing media personality in the same cateogory a nationally known journalist who used to work for CNN in the same category is ludicrous, and you know it. I'd say nice try, but really it's just lame:

Well said, Gal. Exactly right.

#147 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:37 AM | Reply

"I didn't do that, though. Check your premise."

You're not explaining yourself clearly, then. Are you saying that anyone who broke the law on January 6th should be immune from prosecution if they're a "journalist"? If they had all pointed at each other and said "I'm not with these guys", would that absolve them? Or are you saying that Lemon is not immune from prosecution? Otherwise, it looks like you are applying different standards.

"So dishonest, even after it's been spelled out. You call anyone a journalist if they feed your confirmation bias. That's a fundamental problem."

It looks like he's trying to construct a reductio ad absurdum argument, and it's backfiring on him just like it does when most people on this site attempt to do that.

Anyway, putting aside the definition of "journalist" (the 1st Amendement doesn't specify someone has to be a professional journalist any more than someone has to be a professional speaker for Freedom of Speech to apply), journalists aren't immune from prosecution if they break a law just like someone can't claim they're immune if they commit a crime while "practicing their religion".

#148 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-31 10:41 AM | Reply

I've been consistent. I've stated it consistently. Read #8, #30, #50, #133. I even spelled out why Baker was guilty and what he was guilty of - violating the law. I even posted "I believe we all know that journalists can't violate the law. I already said that. That's the fundamental problem with using the FACE Act against Lemon."

#149 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:46 AM | Reply

It looks like he's trying to construct a reductio ad absurdum argument, and it's backfiring on him just like it does when most people on this site attempt to do that.

He's been doing that for a couple of days now. He's asked me if right-wing influencers with only a high-school diploma are journalists just like Lemon because both of them are "independent." It's absolutely ridiculous.

I was an independent consultant (engineering) for years, but very few people can do what I can do, and yes, it requires a specific degree and specific training and years of experience.

It's why I said he'll grant anyone the "title" of "journalist" as long as they tell him what he wants to hear.

#150 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:51 AM | Reply

Hey BillJohnson?
Still think you know more about all this than anyone else on this board?
We're all waiting for you to elucidate us.
Don't be shy!

#151 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:52 AM | Reply

Lemon did something stupid that he deserves to be prosecuted for.
The Trump admin is maliciously prosecuting people to intimidate the press.

Both of these statements can be true, and both can be rightly condemned.

#152 | Posted by sentinel at 2026-01-31 10:53 AM | Reply

Yes, but so far prosecuting someone for doing something you think is stupid is not illegal.
The original judge, a republican, destroyed DOJ for even trying to charge Lemon.
Lemon broke no laws.

Unless you want to buy into the bullshht "charges" from the weaponized Trump DOJ we don't prosecute people that don't violate the law. That's not even the point of charging Lemon.

#153 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:57 AM | Reply

Sentinel - serious question - can you hear how utterly wrong Lemon did something stupid that he deserves to be prosecuted for sounds? How the very premise of it is horrifically wrong?

#154 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 10:58 AM | Reply

If we decide anyone with a camera is a journalist and anyone filming in the Capitol on 1/6 was a journalist, that also means anyone recording ICE anywhere in the country today is a journalist. Alex Pretti was a journalist.

#155 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 11:01 AM | Reply

YAV- He thinks O'Keefe is a journalist FFS.

#156 | Posted by Alexandrite at 2026-01-31 11:03 AM | Reply

I am referring to bellringer, not sentinel.

#157 | Posted by Alexandrite at 2026-01-31 11:04 AM | Reply

Everyone everywhere with a camera can be a citizen journalist, so that basically means every person in this country with a cell phone is potentially a citizen journalist. Okay, but that isn't a turn of events our founding fathers anticipated.

#158 | Posted by Gal_Tuesday at 2026-01-31 11:08 AM | Reply

NY Times had a reporter follow J6'ers onto the floor of the House (or was it the Senate).
I don't believe that reporter was charged with anything.

Was that bad? Should the reporter have been charged?

#109 | POSTED BY SNOOFY

Yes, journalists were present inside the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. While many were covering the event, some individuals identifying as independent journalists or content creators entered the building and were later charged, while others, such as photojournalist Erin Schaff of The New York Times, were assaulted.

Regardless Trumpy pardoned them all.

So Trumpy obviously doesn't believe it's a crime worth prosecuting.

Unless it's obviously a democrat who opposes him. Then stand back and stand by for revenge and retribution baby!

#159 | Posted by donnerboy at 2026-01-31 11:14 AM | Reply

YAV- He thinks O'Keefe is a journalist FFS.

It's a problem with this society in general these days - including the current pResident.

#160 | Posted by YAV at 2026-01-31 11:54 AM | Reply

As I understand it, these are those crimes Lemon is being accused of:

Coordinating with the agitators. It's not against the law to receive a tip, show up and report. Even if these agitators were involved in a criminal conspiracy and he find# out, he is not bound by law to alert LE. However, if he coordinates and participates with the agitators, he is now involved in a criminal conspiracy.

Trespassing- a church is implicitly open to the public, particularly during prayer services. Once the commotion got going they were asked to leave. If they didn't quickly do so then they are trespassing at that point. That applies to Lemon as welll.

Intimidation- if Lemon participated i with the agitators, then he would be liable.

Obstruction - according to the prosecution 2 agitators plus Lemon surrounded a pastor. Lemon was close enough that minor physical contact occurred between him and the pastor. This type of obstruction of movement may well fall under the FACE Act.

All in all, I think this is a pretty tough case for the prosecutors to prove he committed crime(s) but it certainly appears as if enough is there to bring charges.

#161 | Posted by BellRinger at 2026-01-31 12:05 PM | Reply


If we decide anyone with a camera is a journalist and anyone filming in the Capitol on 1/6 was a journalist, that also means anyone recording ICE anywhere in the country today is a journalist. Alex Pretti was a journalist.
#155 | POSTED BY GAL_TUESDAY

Ridiculous, Stephen Horn was a credentialed journalist on 1/6.
The Judge in his case didn't allow that evidence in because it was "irrelevant" to whether his conduct was illegal.

Once you are participating, your credentials don't matter.

#162 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-31 12:13 PM | Reply


Lemon did something stupid that he deserves to be prosecuted for.
The Trump admin is maliciously prosecuting people to intimidate the press.

Both of these statements can be true, and both can be rightly condemned.

Too bad they both aren't true.

#163 | Posted by oneironaut at 2026-01-31 12:14 PM | Reply

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