David Muir hosted ABC’s World News Tonight on Friday ahead of his short break over the weekend, where he reported on anti-ICE protests that have taken place across America
David Muir had the latest(Image: abc)
David Muir viewers admitted they were “shocked” to see the ABC host reporting on the anti-ICE protests sweeping America.
The 52-year-old hosted World News Tonight on Friday, January 30, ahead of his usual weekend break from the network. During the program, Muir reported on the demonstrations taking place against Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
His report began, “Good evening, we begin tonight here with the breaking news, major protests across the U.S. playing out at this hour. Demonstrations against ICE and against President Trump’s immigration crackdown.” Videos played of the protests as Muir continued, “The images coming in, tens of thousands of people in the streets of Minneapolis, braving the brutal cold, part of a nationwide protest. Tonight, similar scenes playing out from Los Angeles to New York.
“It comes as federal agents arrest former CNN anchor and now independent journalist Don Lemon. Lemon was inside a church in Saint Paul, he was reporting when protesters interrupted that church service. Upset over a pastor’s job with ICE.”
Authorities also arrested independent journalist Georgia Fort. As footage from Fort’s home played, Muir explained, “She captured the moment when a masked agent can be seen in the window of her home, showing up looking for her.”
David Muir reported on the protests(Image: ABC)
Muir then handed over to ABC reporter Matt Rivers who began in a voiceover, “Tonight, massive protests in Minneapolis. Tens of thousands marching through the streets of Downtown.”
Reporting live from the protest, Rivers said, “People are out here, taking to the streets, braving the bitter cold with a clear message – they don’t approve with the ICE crackdown in their community.” The journalist reported that students have been walking out of classes and some businesses have closed as part of the protests.
Rivers continued, “A sea of protesters from Minneapolis, to Los Angeles, to San Francisco and New York City. With tensions soaring, tonight the Justice Department now launching a federal investigation into the killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti. The Deputy Attorney General acknowledging that includes a civil rights investigation.”
Videos of the protests were shown on ABC(Image: abc)
The journalist also reported on the arrest of Lemon, saying, “Sources telling ABC News Lemon was arrested at a Beverly Hills hotel overnight, where he was covering the Grammy Awards. Authorities also arresting independent journalist Georgia Fort.”
A video filmed by Fort played in which she said, “Agents are at my door right now.” Fort had also captured a video of masked agents looking through her front window. She was arrested but has since been released from custody.
Lemon’s legal team called the arrests an “unprecedented attack on the first amendment.” A federal judge had previously rejected the DOJ’s attempt to charge Lemon, finding “no evidence” of criminal behavior.”
Rivers reported, “Back here in Minneapolis tonight, tens of thousands taking to the streets, demanding change.” One protester spoke with Rivers and said she’s “hopeful” things will change, but admitted she is “skeptical.”
Reporting live, Rivers said, “David, it was just 24 hours ago that U.S. border czar Tom Homan suggested that a draw down in federal agents was coming. But overnight, President Trump talking about this issue, asked if the federal operation was pulling back, he said, ‘No. No. Not at all.'”
A clip of the report was shared on Instagram, where fans took to the comments to thank Muir for his reporting, but admitted they were shocked to see it on the news. “Thank you for giving the real news!” one person shared.
Another viewer admitted, “I’m actually shocked this received actual news coverage!” as a third posted, “About time ABCNEWS.” Someone else added, “Thank u for covering the this”
