I think that Democrats, especially Democratic politicians, are still enamored with the patina of legacy media and the influence there.

And they're not understanding where the culture is going

as it relates to the media.

If you spent any time in the last decade catching up on the day's news in primetime cable territory,

you probably recognize that voice.

It's Don Lemon.

He was one of CNN's primetime voices for over eight years, before being abruptly let go in 2023.

Don's been in the anchor chair, he's covered countless breaking stories and elections writ large,

and now he's sort of an outsider looking in, which I think gives him a unique perspective on what's working in Democratic politics and strategy

and the impact of a massively changing media ecosystem.

Welcome to The Blueprint with Jen Saki. That's me.

I was excited to talk with Don for this episode for a few reasons.

Don was an influential host on primetime cable for eight years, and he continues to report on the world around him, now from a very different perch.

So he has a very distinct take on the media ecosystem and how new media is changing how people get information.

He is also not shy about talking about how well conservatives have galvanized their party,

while Democrats, in his view, need to tamp down their purity tests.

Don and I spoke in January just before the inauguration.

Don Laman, I'm so happy to see you.

Jen Saki, live and in living color.

In living color.

It's so good to see you. Usually we're by satellite, right? We're usually by satellite. But I mean, I think I first met you.

Maybe I met you before this, but we spent a lot of nights, which you may or not, when I remember,

...