The Guardian • 1/22/2026

A federal magistrate judge recently chose not to approve charges against Don Lemon, the former CNN anchor, related to a protest that took place at a church in Minnesota over the weekend. This decision reportedly caused significant frustration for Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, as reported by NBC News and CNN. This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding protests and the legal ramifications that can arise from them, particularly involving high-profile figures. The refusal to charge Lemon may reflect a broader judicial reluctance to intervene in cases involving public demonstrations, especially when they involve media personalities. This situation underscores the complexities of balancing free speech rights with legal accountability in politically charged environments. Furthermore, it raises questions about the role of public figures in protests and the potential repercussions they face, which resonates with historical instances where media and politics intersect. As protests continue to be a focal point in societal discourse, the implications of this case may influence how similar situations are handled in the future, making it a significant point of discussion in the ongoing dialogue about civil rights and media responsibility.
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