Don Lemon shares his perspective on not endorsing "deceivers and extremists" during his initial individual interview after being let go from CNN.
In an exclusive discussion with ABC24, a regional news partner, Lemon contemplated his journalistic duties and addressed the backlash he faced for confronting Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy during a tense live conversation in April.
"As a journalist and as an American, I have an obligation to tell the truth while upholding our constitution's principles," he remarked. "It calls for striving towards perfection rather than achieving it outright. No one is infallible; however, we can only realize the potential of our constitution by advocating for accuracy and standing up against injustice."
Regarding his contentious Ramaswamy interaction, Lemon elucidated whom journalists should or should not support.
"I am against giving voice to deceivers, extremists, insurrectionists, election deniers – putting them on equal footing with those who are committed to honesty and constitutional compliance," he declared. "Doing so defies journalistic responsibility."
As for his career's trajectory, Lemon insisted he won't be pressured into any decisions while enjoying life alongside fiancé Tim Malone, a real estate agent.
"People often ask about my next step because they miss seeing me on TV. However, I won't be dictated by others' expectations," he said. "Decisions made in haste often lead to poor outcomes; consequently, there is no need to rush."
'Dumbfounded': Don Lemon dismissed by CNN as network refutes specifics
Lemon announced in April that CNN had fired him from "CNN This Morning", where he co-anchored alongside Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow for roughly six months.
"I was astounded when my agent informed me that CNN had terminated my services,” he stated via Twitter during that time.
In response to Lemon's departure, CNN CEO Chris Licht wished him well in pursuing other opportunities.