Former CNN host Don Lemon appeared on the network on Monday to criticize former President Donald Trump, accusing him of provoking a second assassination attempt on his own life. On Sunday, a gunman lay in wait for hours at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course, positioning a long rifle with a scope through a fence. Secret Service agents spotted the suspect and opened fire, causing him to flee.
Lemon addressed the broader issue of heated political rhetoric, saying the effort to “lower the temperature” in America is essential as the election nears. However, he argued that Trump and his allies, like JD Vance, wrongly blame Democrats for the rising tensions. He noted that Hillary Clinton made similar claims during her appearance on Rachel Maddow’s MSNBC show, echoing concerns about Trump’s dangerous influence.
Lemon reminded viewers of Trump’s past actions, accusing him of calling the media “the enemy of the people” and fueling violence. He referenced the 2018 pipe bomb threats made by Cesar Sayoc, a Trump supporter who targeted various public figures. While Trump condemned those acts at the time, Lemon argued that his divisive rhetoric has continued to inspire violence.
Joe Biden also blamed Trump’s language for fostering hate and called for a more civil political environment, emphasizing that “words matter.”
Lemon then recounted several of Trump’s inflammatory nicknames for political rivals and allies alike, including “Crooked Joe,” “Crooked Hillary,” and “Comrade Kamala.” He also challenged false claims attributed to Trump, such as the idea that Trump would call for a “bloodbath” if not re-elected, and clarified that Trump was actually discussing the impact of electric vehicle mandates on jobs.