Don Lemon livestreams from Capitol Hill with congressional escort

In September 2025, Don Lemon, an independent journalist, was assigned a Congressional staff escort by the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee in the United States to livestream his show from Capitol Hill. This arrangement has raised questions regarding press access and the rules surrounding it, as Lemon does not possess official press credentials. The DPCC has facilitated access for Lemon, allowing him to cover events and engage with members of Congress that would otherwise be restricted. Members of Congress from both parties are increasingly utilizing social media influencers, such as journalists and content creators, to communicate and push their political narratives. This trend has elicited frustration among traditional journalists who adhere to established reporting rules and protocols. The exemption granted to Lemon for livestreaming, including access to specific areas within Capitol Hill, has highlighted both the evolving nature of news coverage and the changing dynamics between Congress and the press, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections. The interaction between Lemon and Congresswoman Nancy Mace drew attention to the impropriety of the whole arrangement, especially considering how frequently influencers break long-standing rules, raising ethical concerns about the relationship between journalists and political entities.