In a surprising turn of events, WNBA star Sophie Cunningham has publicly addressed the recent arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon (often misspelled as “Don Leon” in some reports), who faces federal charges related to his involvement in a disruptive anti-ICE protest at a Minnesota church.
The incident occurred on January 18, 2026, at Cities Church in St. Paul, where protesters entered during a service to demonstrate against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. An ICE official serves as a pastor there, heightening tensions. Lemon, now an independent journalist, was present covering the event live and has maintained he was acting in a journalistic capacity, not as a participant in the disruption. Federal authorities, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, described it as a “coordinated attack” on the church, leading to Lemon’s arrest on January 30, 2026, in Los Angeles, along with others including journalists Georgia Fort and activists. He was charged with federal civil rights violations for allegedly interfering with worshippers’ religious freedoms but was released without bond pending further proceedings.
Cunningham, the outspoken Indiana Fever guard known for her candid takes on social and sports issues, spoke out via social media and interviews, calling the arrest “a troubling overreach” that raises questions about press freedom and protest rights. “This isn’t just about one person or one church—it’s about how far authorities will go when narratives clash,” she stated. “Don Lemon was there reporting, and now he’s facing charges that could chill journalism. We need to protect voices, even when they’re controversial.”
Her comments drew mixed reactions, with supporters praising her for defending free speech amid political divides, while critics accused her of downplaying the disruption’s impact on congregants. Cunningham, who has previously weighed in on gun violence and social justice, emphasized balance: “Disrupting worship isn’t ideal, but criminalizing coverage feels like punishment for shining a light.”
The case continues to spark debate over the boundaries between activism, journalism, and religious protections under the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Lemon has vowed to fight the charges, stating, “I will not be silenced.” As developments unfold, figures like Cunningham highlight the broader implications for media and civil liberties in polarized times.
