Former CNN host Don Lemon considering presidential bid: 'If the people want me, I'll do it'

Former CNN host Don Lemon said on a recent podcast that he is considering a presidential run if Americans are serious about wanting him to and placed the odds of him doing so at above 50%.

Lemon, who was axed from CNN in 2023, said he has been approached about the matter by fans of his new podcast and online commentary show and that the support he's felt from them since leaving CNN has been "very humbling."

“Look, I never say never. I’ve got a lot on my plate right now doing what I’m 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 I’m doing, what it means to the culture and society."

Lemon, a Democrat, said that he has been torn on the topic because running for president would take his full devotion, when he wants to focus on journalism. However, he said he would consider it if enough fans are serious.

"I think I could be a better president than Donald Trump,'” Lemon said. “How serious is it? If the people want me, I’ll do it. But it is a daunting undertaking to run for president in this country because you’d have to be devoted to it full-time. And I would like to devote much of my time to journalism.

“When I’m out there, I’m out there, and I cover the candidates, and I look at what they do, and they’re very good,” he continued. “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.”

When asked about the percentage chances that he does end up running one day, he placed it at 65% to 70%.

The former CNN host did not indicate what year he was considering running, with 2028 being the next presidential election. But Lemon is currently 60-years-old, meaning he could also potentially run in 2032.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.