CNN's Don Lemon Says Trump’s Success 'Surprised’ Him, But He ‘Saw It Coming’

CNN’s Don Lemon joined former CNN producer and Mediaite editor Steve Krakauer this week on Krakauer’s podcast, "Autonomous." During their nearly hour-long discussion, the two touched on a variety of topics — from Lemon's faith, to social media — but they inevitably landed on the 2016 presidential election.

Lemon specifically commented on GOP nominee Donald Trump, whom he has interviewed several times both before and during his candidacy, offering his personal take on the real estate mogul's rapid rise to political success.

Donald Trump attends the "Celebrity Apprentice All Stars" Season 13 Press Conference at Jack Studios on October 12, 2012 in New York City. (Getty Images)

Lemon told Krakauer that while Trump’s big primary wins and overwhelming following of supporters "surprised" him at first, he "saw it coming." He said that in the months leading up to Trump's nomination, he witnessed how many people doubted the billionaire businessman.

On one hand, Lemon explained, it makes sense that people were skeptical that the former reality TV show host would get very far. But on the other hand, he said, television is a powerful platform, which Trump has used effectively on his show, "The Apprentice," and televised debates.

The CNN anchor advised listeners to "never underestimate" an opponent because as soon as they begin to doubt, that is when someone like Trump gains a foothold.