The Don Lemon Show

Well, that escalated quickly. In a stunning upset, progressive Zohran Mamdani obliterated Democratic establishment favorite Andrew Cuomo in the NYC mayoral primary. While insiders predicted a close race, few expected a landslide, and certainly not this fast of a concession from Cuomo. So, what does this overwhelming victory mean for the general election? And more importantly, what should the Democratic Party take away from voters so loudly rejecting the old guard? Don is joined by political commentator  @JackCocchiarellaShow  to break it all down: what just happened, why it matters, and how this shift could reshape the party's future. Hint: ignoring progressives clearly isn't working. Tune in. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump's so-called “ceasefire plan” collapsed in what feels like record time. Tensions between Iran and Israel are still boiling over, and the deal he touted as a diplomatic win? DOA. We'll break down what went wrong, what happens next, and why Trump's foreign policy “wins” keep slipping through his fingers. Then we'll pivot to the heat, literal and political, in New York City. It's Election Day, and voters are hitting the polls in the middle of one of the hottest days the city's seen in years. Will the weather sway the outcome of the Cuomo vs. Mamdani showdown? Join us live as we unpack it all. This episode is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good morning, Lemon Nation! Today, we're diving into the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. After Trump loudly declared a ceasefire, it took less than a news cycle for both countries to go back to lobbing missiles and insults. And now Trump, clearly frustrated, has responded with a quote for the history books: "They don't know what the f** they're doing."* Well, the same could be said of the so-called dealmaker-in-chief. His self-proclaimed peace plan has collapsed faster than his approval ratings post-parade. What does this mean for the region? For America? For the world? Let's break down the fallout, the global implications, and why diplomacy via tantrum rarely ends well. This episode is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with political strategist Steve Schmidt for a sharp, unfiltered conversation on the state of the world and the chaos at home. They break down the U.S. strike on Iran, Iran's swift retaliation on a U.S. base in Qatar, and what this dangerous tit-for-tat means for America's future. Plus, they dive into the broken state of U.S. politics where extremism runs rampant, leadership is lacking, and the stakes have never been higher. This is a must-watch for anyone trying to make sense of a world on edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tensions are rising, and fast. Iran has just launched a retaliatory attack on a U.S. base in Qatar, following American strikes over the weekend. Is this the final move in an already dangerous game of escalation… or just the beginning? Don breaks it all down. Then we pivot to the political circus unfolding a little closer to home: the NYC mayoral race. Don is joined by former Ohio State Senator Nina Turner and tech culture journalist Taylor Lorenz to unpack the chaos, cross-endorsements, and what this race says about the future of Democratic politics. From international conflict to New York street fights, buckle up. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. has officially launched strikes on Iran. What does this mean for global stability? Is war now inevitable, or is there still a way out? Tensions in the Middle East are spiraling, allies are on edge, and Trump is already playing this as a win. Join Don to break down the facts, the fallout, and what happens next because this isn't just foreign policy, it's our future on the line. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with NYC mayoral candidate Michael Blake for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about the future of New York City. Blake lays out his bold vision for the city, from public safety and housing to economic opportunity and government accountability, and explains why he believes he's the leader New York needs right now. They also dive into the unique strategy behind candidates cross-endorsing each other in this race, and what that says about coalition-building, political unity, and the stakes of this election. Whether you're undecided or just curious, this conversation offers a clear window into the campaign and the candidate behind it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with political commentator and writer Ahmed Baba for a timely and wide-ranging conversation. Coming off the heels of Juneteenth, they reflect on what the holiday truly represents in today's political climate and how freedom, equality, and justice are still up for debate in many corners of the country. Then, they turn to the growing rift inside the MAGA movement. As Trump's policies become more extreme, some of his loudest defenders—Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and others—are suddenly backing away. Is this the beginning of a MAGA unraveling, or just more strategic rebranding? Don and Ahmed break it all down. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump's legal losing streak continues! Today, we're breaking down two major court rulings that just smacked down the Trump administration's overreach. First up: A federal judge ordered the release of Mahmoud Khalil, calling his detention an unlawful retaliation for his pro-Palestinian views. The judge didn't mince words, saying there's real evidence that immigration charges were being weaponized to punish protected speech. You know, that pesky Constitution Trump keeps forgetting about? Then, we turn to Harvard where another court ruled that Trump cannot block the university from enrolling foreign students. Turns out, xenophobia isn't a legal strategy. These back-to-back courtroom losses are a reminder that authoritarian vibes might play well at rallies, but they don't hold up in court. Let's get into it. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honor of World Refugee Day, Don sits down with David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, for a powerful and urgent conversation about the global refugee crisis. With a record 122 million people displaced worldwide, Miliband breaks down the root causes of this staggering number and the human toll behind the statistics. They also examine the far-reaching implications of the Trump administration's refugee and immigration policies, from gutted resettlement programs to severe cuts in humanitarian aid. What does this mean for the U.S.'s role on the world stage? And how can Americans step up in a moment that demands action? This is a conversation about accountability, compassion, and what it truly means to lead in a time of crisis. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump says he'll make a decision about U.S. involvement in Iran… in two weeks. Sound familiar? That's because “two weeks” has become Trump's go-to stall tactic for everything, from healthcare plans to tax returns to infrastructure. So what's really going on? Is this strategic ambiguity, political theater, or just a guy who doesn't know what he's doing? Join us as we unpack Trump's latest delay, what it could mean for the escalating crisis in the Middle East, and why this “two-week” promise might be the biggest lie on loop. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For this special Juneteenth conversation, Don Lemon sits down with John Conyers III to reflect on the meaning of the day, the long fight for Black freedom, and the legacy of his father, the late Congressman John Conyers, one of the longest-serving members of Congress and a tireless advocate for civil rights. From introducing the original bill to make Martin Luther King Jr. Day a national holiday to pushing for reparations and justice reform, Rep. Conyers left behind a powerful legacy of progress. In this intimate and thoughtful interview, his son opens up about what that legacy means today and why the work is far from over. A powerful reminder that Juneteenth is not just about history, but about the future we're still building. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Juneteenth!

In this inspiring and insightful conversation, Don Lemon sits down with cosmetic chemist and BeautyStat founder Ron Robinson to talk about his journey from aspiring doctor to beauty industry trailblazer. With decades of experience at brands like Estée Lauder and Avon, Ron shares how he built his award-winning skincare brand into a major player in the beauty world while making inclusivity a central mission. Plus, as an advisor to Hailey Bieber's billion-dollar brand Rhode, Ron offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to break into the industry and build something that lasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's official, the MAGA meltdown has begun. As Trump stumbles toward another foreign policy disaster, this time with Iran, some of his most loyal far-right cheerleaders are suddenly slamming the brakes. Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Charlie Kirk… yes, those people… are now speaking out against Trump's reckless escalation and apparent thirst for war. Is this a principled stand or just performative outrage? Either way, the MAGA movement is eating itself, and we're here for the chaos. Join us as we unpack the growing rift inside Trump's base, the danger of this Iran brinkmanship, and why even the worst people sometimes get something right… accidentally. Bring snacks. It's gonna be messy. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with Andrew Yang for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation about the future of American politics and technology. Yang shares why he believes the two-party system is broken, what's holding Democrats back, and why it's time to rethink how we engage voters. Then they dive into the rise of artificial intelligence, what it means for the economy, the workforce, and whether our leaders are prepared for the disruption. Smart, sharp, and surprisingly candid, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've got a jam-packed show today starting with the headlines rocking Hollywood. Tyler Perry has been accused and sued for sexual harassment and assault. Joining us to break it all down is TMZ's own Charles Latibeaudiere, with the latest on what's been confirmed, what's being alleged, and where things may go next. Then we pivot to the brewing civil war inside MAGA world. Turns out not all of Trump's loyalists are on board with his Iran stance. Are we witnessing a real split or just another attention grab? And finally, Pete Hegseth's Senate Armed Services Committee hearing was not the flex he thought it would be. Lawmakers roasted him over his lack of qualifications, and honestly, we're surprised he even showed up. Snark. Receipts. Chaos. Let's get into it. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander was arrested by ICE after peacefully questioning whether or not they had a warrant. Can ICE even arrest U.S. citizens? Brad will join us live to walk us through what happened and why he's not backing down in the face of Trump's increasingly authoritarian playbook. Then, we're diving into a bombshell breaking story: new accusations surfacing against media mogul Tyler Perry. Jason Lee of Hollywood Unlocked joins Don to break down what we know, what's unconfirmed, and what this means for Perry's empire and reputation. It's politics, power, and the pursuit of truth, unfiltered. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's livestream, we dive into the shocking news out of New York City: Democratic Comptroller Brad Lander has been arrested by ICE. Yes, you read that right...ICE. Since when does Immigration and Customs Enforcement have the authority to arrest U.S. citizens, let alone elected officials? Lander's so-called “crime”? Asking to see a warrant. This is the latest in a disturbing pattern of crackdowns on dissent and Democratic voices. First Senator Padilla, now this. What exactly is going on, and how far will Trump's administration go to silence opposition? Join us as we break it all down. Facts, receipts, and a healthy dose of side-eye. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful and timely conversation, Don Lemon sits down with Sarah Kate Ellis, President & CEO of GLAAD, to break down the state of Pride in 2025—and why this year feels different. With over 700 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced across the country and political rhetoric reaching dangerous new heights, Sarah unpacks where this wave of hatred is coming from, how it's impacting real lives, and what needs to happen next. From broken media narratives to corporate cowardice, no topic is off-limits. If you care about justice, visibility, and fighting back, this is the interview you need to see. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Israel-Iran conflict is spiraling, and fast. After days of strikes and mounting civilian casualties, tensions in the region are hitting a boiling point. And now, Donald Trump is inserting himself into the chaos, publicly urging people to “immediately evacuate Tehran.” (Helpful? Not really. Alarming? Absolutely.) As the possibility of U.S. involvement grows, we're asking the real questions: Is this how World War III starts? What's actually happening on the ground? And how much of this is driven by Trump's need for distraction after his humiliating parade flop? Join us for a live breakdown of the facts, the fallout, and the frightening implications of one man's foreign policy by ego. This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump threw himself a $45 million military birthday bash… and barely anyone showed up. The tanks rolled. The jets flew. But the vibes? Flat. The crowd? Sparse. And the headlines? Brutal. Now, the fallout begins. Join Don Lemon, Michael Fanone, and the Jolly Good Ginger as they break down what went wrong, why this parade flop matters, and what it reveals about Trump's slipping grip on public support. From the staggering price tag to the no-show allies to the contrast with the massive No Kings protests, this isn't the flex Trump hoped for. Let's talk about the spectacle, the silence, and what it all means. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, that was...underwhelming. Trump's $45 million birthday bash-slash-military-parade was supposed to be a flex. Instead, it flopped harder than his NFT collection. Sparse crowds, low energy, and, according to many who watched, absolutely boring. Meanwhile, the No Kings protest turned into something historic. Data analysts are reporting it may be the largest protest in U.S. history. The streets were packed, the message was clear, and no tanks were needed to get people to show up. So...remind us again who's got the momentum? Join us as we unpack the embarrassing contrast, the wasted taxpayer dollars, and why Trump's obsession with spectacle can't hide the growing dissent. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is brought to you by MSI United States. Every woman deserves a choice. Rush your donation today to MSIUNITEDSTATES.ORG, or text "LEMON" to 511 511. Text Fees may apply. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Don Lemon, Joy Reid, and Jim Acosta for a special livestream event as they unpack the No Kings protests rocking the nation. From the chilling crackdown on free speech to the MAGA movement's authoritarian overreach, we're diving into what this moment means for democracy. Don, Joy, and Jim will be in real-time conversation with the people who are on the ground. We'll hear from activists, journalists, and organizers reporting live from the front lines. This isn't just analysis. It's a rallying cry. Don't miss it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you put Don Lemon, Tara Palmeri, Mike Nellis, Michael Fanone, and Glenn Kirschner in one livestream? A reality check we all desperately need. From the chaos in Los Angeles, where Trump's administration keeps sending in troops no one asked for, to the rising tension between Israel and Iran (and U.S. involvement that feels like we're inching toward World War III), this conversation goes deep. Plus: the ever-growing pile of Trump nonsense, legal failures, and the dangerous erosion of democratic norms happening right under our noses. No spin. No fluff. Just facts, frustration, and some hard truth from the people who've seen it all up close. Buckle up, it's a lot. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just one day before Trump's multi-million-dollar birthday military parade, the world is teetering on the edge of global conflict. After Israel launched strikes on Iran, Iran retaliated, and now, the U.S. is reportedly stepping in. Because nothing says “peace through strength” like a potential world war... and a massive military parade. While tensions in the Middle East explode, Trump is busy polishing tanks for his party and pretending everything's just fine. Meanwhile, Americans are bracing for the fallout, both literal and figurative. Is this the brink of World War III? Or just another day in this surreal reality show we call politics? Join Don and the Lemon Legends as we break down the global chaos, the domestic dysfunction, and the dystopian optics of it all. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, Israel launched strikes on Iran, an unprecedented escalation that has global leaders on edge and many wondering: are we staring down the barrel of World War III? Meanwhile, back home, things aren't looking any more stable. In Los Angeles, the Trump administration continues to back its unconstitutional deployment of the National Guard to silence protesters. And just when we thought the authoritarianism couldn't get any more blatant, Senator Alex Padilla was detained and dragged out of a Kristi Noem press event for asking questions. Yes, really. Trump once claimed he'd “end the wars.” Instead, it looks like he's starting new ones, both abroad and at home. Let's unpack the chaos, connect the dots, and ask the question on everyone's mind: what the hell is happening? WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a shocking and brutal display of authoritarian overreach, Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed from a Kristi Noem press event in Los Angeles. And by “forcibly,” we mean tackled and dragged to the ground by Noem's security detail because apparently asking questions is now a punishable offense. So… this is where we are now? Elected officials being physically assaulted for showing up in their own state? Is this Kristi Noem's version of “law and order”? Or just more of the GOP's ongoing war on decency, democracy, and basic human rights? Join Don as we break down the footage, the fallout, and what this all means for the future of political dissent in America. It's giving fascism. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The tide is turning, and people are done staying quiet. Let's take a look at the growing chorus of voices speaking out against Donald Trump and his inhumane policies. From celebrities to lawmakers, folks are using their platforms to say what needs to be said. Kim Kardashian called the ICE raids what they are: inhumane. Tyler Perry and Doechii used their time at the BET Awards to call out Trump directly. And Eva Longoria took to social media to slam the cruelty of ICE detention practices. The message is loud and clear... enough is enough. While Trump tries to rule by fear, intimidation, and bad faith birthday parades, people are standing up and calling him out. Let's talk about who's speaking up, why it matters, and what happens next. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elon Musk is backpedaling again. After throwing some spicy shots at Donald Trump, he's now walking them back, saying he regrets his posts. Awww. Is this the end of their billionaire bromance feud? Or just a pause in the circus? Meanwhile, new reports reveal that the Fort Bragg soldiers at Trump's speech were handpicked for optics, carefully curated to look the part and hold the "right" political views. Sound familiar? It's all part of the lead-up to Trump's upcoming birthday parade: a pageant of loyalty and empty spectacle designed to distract from his mounting failures. Join us as we unpack the performative politics, the carefully staged military photo ops, and the Musk-Trump melodrama. It's not leadership, it's just propaganda in a red tie. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful sit-down, Don Lemon is joined by political commentator and journalist Ahmed Baba to break down the latest chaos from the Trump administration. From targeting immigrants who are following the rules to deploying the military to American cities (against the will of state leaders) this presidency is veering deeper into authoritarian territory by the day. California said “no thanks,” but Trump sent the troops anyway. Immigrant families doing everything right? Still under attack. So what do we do now? Don and Ahmed cut through the noise, expose the dangerous overreach, and make one thing clear: it's time to stand up. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration keeps turning up the heat. First the National Guard, now the Marines. But is this military escalation really about maintaining peace, or manufacturing chaos? The media's showing burning cars and chaos in the streets, but folks on the ground in LA are telling a very different story. Let's cut through the smoke (literally and figuratively) to ask: what's actually happening in Los Angeles? Is this response about safety or about optics and control? And how much is too much when it comes to sending in troops against American citizens? Join us as we separate fact from fear-mongering and expose the reality behind the headlines. Because it looks like LA isn't burning down… but our democracy might be. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with friend of the show and retired D.C. police officer Michael Fanone to unpack the latest descent into chaos. From the military escalation in L.A. (where the only thing being protected is Trump's ego), to MAGA's ongoing war on accountability, to the bizarre plans for Trump's upcoming birthday parade, they break it all down. Why is Trump acting like a dictator on tour? And why are so many people still cheering him on? Tune in for facts, fire, and zero tolerance for fascism. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The showdown is heating up. In the wake of escalating protests in Los Angeles, Donald Trump has steamrolled past state authority, first sending in the National Guard, then Marines, and now more National Guard, all without California's consent. Governor Gavin Newsom says his state didn't ask for this and doesn't want it. And now? Trump is openly endorsing Newsom's arrest. Yes, you read that right. Newsom is turning to the courts, arguing this is a blatant violation of state sovereignty. And he's not wrong. Because when a president starts deploying the military against the will of elected state leaders and punishing them for it, we're well past law and order and deep into autocracy cosplay. Tonight, we're breaking down how we got here, what this means for California (and every other state), and why this fight could shape the future of federal vs. state power in America. Strap in. This one's a mess. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with journalist Josh Vaughn and elected official Lamont Jones to expose the horrifying reality inside Dauphin County Prison in Pennsylvania, infamous for having double the national average of inmate deaths. Josh has spent years reporting on the systemic abuse at the prison: from a 17-day solitary confinement blackout to inhumane conditions like freezing cells and medical neglect. Lamont, once incarcerated there himself, is now seeking justice after the suspicious death of his young cousin behind those same bars. Together, they created Death County, PA, a new podcast from Wondery that dives deep into the coverups, corruption, and devastating human cost of America's broken prison system. In a country where the President is pushing for more incarceration, not less, this conversation couldn't be more urgent. What does Dauphin County tell us about the future of American justice? And who's really paying the price? This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What started as protests against ICE raids has spiraled into something far more dangerous. Despite California officials saying they had things under control, Trump has now deployed not just the National Guard, but marines and even more National Guard to Los Angeles, all without the state's consent. Governor Gavin Newsom is calling it what it is: federal overreach. So… is this a violation of states' rights? Is Trump trying to provoke violence for political gain? And if this can happen in California, what's stopping it from happening in your state next? Let's break it all down. The power grab, the escalation, the implications. Is this what autocracy looks like in America? ...Yeah. It kind of is. Join us for receipts, resistance, and absolutely no sugarcoating. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation was too good to keep buried in the Substack archives. In this candid and wide-ranging sit-down, Don Lemon is joined by political analyst and writer Ahmed Baba to talk about the chaos of the current political moment and why independent media is more essential than ever. From the grift-filled mess that is Trump's so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” to the hilariously public meltdown of the Trump/Elon bromance, nothing is off-limits. Smart. Sharp. And very snarky. You won't want to miss it. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the second time today, we're going live to break down the disturbing escalation in Los Angeles. Protests against ICE raids turned into a national crisis after Trump deployed the National Guard without California's request, the first time a president has done that in decades. And now? The administration is reportedly preparing to deploy Marines. Yes, you read that right. Marines. Against civilians. For protesting. California officials are demanding they leave. Trump and his cabinet are doubling down. So we have to ask: Is this the American Gestapo? Has protest officially been reclassified as a threat to MAGA authority? Join us as we dig into the constitutional chaos, the growing authoritarian playbook, and what this all means for democracy, free speech, and your right to fight back. Spoiler alert: It's not looking great. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thousands of Los Angeles residents hit the streets to protest ICE's increasingly aggressive raids, exercising their First Amendment rights, as Americans tend to do. But instead of listening or de-escalating, Donald Trump decided to call in the National Guard. That's right: federal troops, deployed without the governor's request for the first time in decades. California officials are demanding they stand down. Trump's cabinet is doubling down. So the question is: Are we witnessing the rise of an American Gestapo? Is this just more MAGA authoritarian cosplay, or something far more dangerous? We're digging into the legal, political, and moral chaos of the moment, because if the federal government is now targeting citizens for protesting injustice… that's not law and order. That's a crackdown. Buckle up, Lemon Nation. This is not normal. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with acclaimed Broadway producer Brian Anthony Moreland for a powerful conversation about representation, storytelling, and the transformative power of theatre. As the only Black lead producer on Broadway this season, Moreland is making waves with the bold new revival of Othello. Whether you're a theatre lover or just someone who believes in the power of art to shape culture, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. This episode is sponsored by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/LEMONDROPS and use LEMONDROPS at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legal analyst, political commentator, and host of Make It Make Sense Daily, Monique Pressley is back with another sharp and unfiltered episode of The Week With Monique! This time, she's unpacking the epic fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk—because of course the fate of the nation is being shaped by two fragile egos in full public meltdown. How did we end up here? And more importantly, what does their messy breakup mean for the rest of us? Monique breaks it all down with insight, receipts, and just the right amount of side-eye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Day 2 of the Trump–Elon Split, and the drama is only getting juicier. As the public feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk escalates, we're bringing in our Lemon Legends to weigh in on the pettiness, the power plays, and the fallout. Who's winning this breakup? Who's losing their mind? And what does this messy meltdown mean for the rest of us? Join Don and the Legends for a wild ride through ego, influence, and the end of a very weird bromance. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another morning in America, where two of the world's pettiest billionaires are beefing...loudly, publicly, and stupidly. Today, we're breaking down all the drama as we head into Day 2 of the Trump/Elon meltdown. The insults are flying, the egos are bruised, and Tesla stock is already feeling the heat. Who comes out on top in this mess? More importantly… what does this feud mean for the rest of us mere mortals trying to survive their chaos? Grab your coffee. It's going to be another absurd ride. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Billionaires Are Behaving Badly. Don Lemon sat down with the Jolly Good Ginger to break down the chaos in the news cycle—and just as they started rolling, the Elon Musk vs. Donald Trump feud exploded. From the petty jabs to the wild accusations, Don and Jolly dive into it all with razor-sharp insight and plenty of laughs. It's egos, grift, and grade-A drama served with a side of truth. Don't miss this hilarious and unfiltered take on the stories dominating the headlines. This episode is sponsored by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/LEMONDROPS and use LEMONDROPS at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's not a bromance—it's a breakup! Elon Musk and Donald Trump are officially in their messy public feud era. From cryptic jabs to full-blown accusations (yes, Elon just suggested Trump is in the Epstein files), this split is playing out like a Real Housewives reunion, but with more billionaires and less accountability. What set it off? What does it mean for MAGA world? And is this just the beginning of an even uglier war between two egos too big to share the spotlight? Tonight, Don is joined by the brilliant Joy Reid and Reecie Colbert to unpack the drama, the fallout, and what this chaos means for the future of politics, tech, and whatever the hell this country is turning into. Don't miss it. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CNN's Jim Acosta joins Don Lemon to break down all the chaos dominating the headlines—from Trump's ongoing grift to Elon Musk's messy political pivot, to the so-called 'Big Beautiful Bill' that's anything but. No spin, no fluff—just two seasoned journalists digging into what matters, what's broken, and what's next. This episode is sponsored by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/LEMONDROPS and use LEMONDROPS at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don Lemon sits down with Democratic strategist and former senior advisor to Kamala Harris, Mike Nellis, for a candid conversation about the 2024 election fallout. From strategic missteps to messaging failures, they unpack how Democrats lost ground and what it will take to rebuild. Can the party course-correct before 2028? What issues are voters actually prioritizing? And is the current leadership up to the challenge? It's real talk, tough truths, and a blueprint for what comes next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

White House press secretary turned author Karine Jean-Pierre is making headlines, this time for her new book Independent (dropping this October) and her surprise announcement that she's leaving the Democratic Party to register as… you guessed it… an Independent. Yes, the same Karine who served as the voice of the Biden administration and a key mouthpiece for the Democratic Party is now singing a different tune. So what gives? Is this a principled shift or a carefully timed rebrand? Join us as we break down what this move really means, how it's being received inside the Beltway, and whether this is a quiet rebuke of the party… or just a savvy pivot ahead of 2028. WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legacy news is in freefall, with ratings plummeting and more Americans opting to turn away from traditional mainstream news sources. And to make things worse, the Trump administration is ready to kick it while it's down, slashing funding to public broadcasting altogether. Why? Because informed citizens are inconvenient when you're trying to run a disinformation campaign from the Oval Office. As Americans turn away from traditional outlets and toward independent media, we ask: what's next? Can the media rebuild public trust? Or is this the final season of “Mainstream Media: The Series”? Journalist Oliver Darcy joins us to unpack the collapse, the consequences, and the chaos. Is this the end of an era? WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Lemon Nation! There's trouble in Big Beautiful Paradise! Freshly departed from the Trump administration, Elon Musk has called MAGA's spending bill a "disgusting abomination," triggering responses from both Republicans and Democrats. Join Don at 5pm EST to break down all of the drama! WE HAVE MERCH!! Purchase here: https://don-lemon-merch-store.myshopify.com/ This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is sponsored by Lean. Get started with 20% off when you enter LEMON20 at takelean.com. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to https://FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices