Don Lemon Arrested: A Dangerous Moment for Free Speech

What does the arrest of Don Lemon on federal civil rights charges while covering a protest reveal about threats to journalistic freedom in America?

On this urgent episode of the Tara Palmeri Show, Tara addresses the deeply disturbing news of Don Lemon's arrest and detention after he reported on an anti-ICE demonstration at Cities Church. Joined by Katie Phang anchoring a tribute show in Don's honor, the discussion features insights from fellow independent journalists and friends examining how this case—charging interference with religious freedom and conspiracy—pushes boundaries on First Amendment protections for press coverage of protests. Tara reflects on Don's longstanding mentorship, from her early CNN days to his encouragement of her independent path, while highlighting the chilling effects on street-level journalism without corporate backing, indiscriminate tactics against reporters and demonstrators, and the broader implications for documenting resistance amid rising tensions.

How can independent media and viewers push back against actions that appear designed to intimidate journalists covering protests?

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Tara Palmeri is one of the most feared and fearless reporters covering power and politics. She has 15 years of experience covering national politics and foreign affairs. She was formerly a White House Correspondent for ABC News where she covered the first Trump administration. She was the chief National Correspondent for POLITICO during the Biden administration. She has been a political analyst for CNBC, CBS and CNN. She started her career as a columnist for the Washington Examiner and then went on to report for the New York Post. She was a foreign correspondent for POLITICO Europe, where she covered international affairs, including Brexit. She hosted the Ringer's political podcast "Somebody's Gotta Win" and wrote a column for Puck. Tara also hosted two acclaimed podcasts on Jeffrey Epstein, "Broken: Jeffrey Epstein" and "Power: The Maxwells." Tara currently hosts the Tara Palmeri Show.

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