Story perspectives

Don Lemon Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Charges

2/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Don Lemon, an independent journalist and former CNN anchor, pleaded not guilty to federal charges tied to his protest coverage at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The charges include conspiracy against religious freedom and interference with the exercise.
Arraignment occurred February 13, 2026, before Magistrate Judge Douglas L. Micko, who rejected the government's bid.
Lemon faces the charges alongside others in the protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

History

Historical Context

The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) was enacted in 1993 in response to the Supreme Court's Employment Division v. Smith decision, which limited religious freedoms. While RFRA aimed to protect religious practices, the 1997 City of Boerne v. Flores ruling restricted its application to federal laws. Recent charges against Don Lemon reflect ongoing tensions between religious freedom and government authority, echoing historical struggles for rights in the U.S.

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Story summary

Don Lemon, an independent journalist and former CNN anchor, pleaded not guilty to federal charges tied to his protest coverage at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The charges include conspiracy against religious freedom and interference with the exercise.
Arraignment occurred February 13, 2026, before Magistrate Judge Douglas L. Micko, who rejected the government's bid.
Lemon faces the charges alongside others in the protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

1 / 2