Former CNN host Don Lemon returned to the network, appearing on Erin Burnett's show to discuss the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and to promote his new book. Lemon criticized Trump for blaming Democrats' rhetoric for inciting violence and argued that Trump's own inflammatory comments contribute to the problem. He emphasized that if Trump wants to be perceived as less of a threat to democracy, he should tone down his rhetoric and stop inciting unrest. Lemon also pointed out Trump's history of derogatory nicknames for political opponents and media figures, suggesting that this behavior exacerbates political tensions. The suspect in the assassination attempt, Ryan Routh, was apprehended by Secret Service before he could fire any shots.