« Reaction From Obama, McCain And The President | Main | Nevada Poll: McCain 42, Obama 44 » Comments Thread: Tim Russert13 Jun 2008 04:39 pm A forum for your Meet The Press memories, your observations on TR's contribution to journalism, your debates about his style, or whatever else you have on your mind. Here is the NBC News Special Report, anchored by Tom Brokaw. And here is the Meet the Press theme, a cut of John Williams' "The Mission." Comments (103)
objective oppo will never be the same, nor will Sunday mornings, debates or election nights; truly irreplaceable 
This is terrible. Russert seemed like a good guy and was a great journalist. I will never forget watching him announce after the results of the North Carolina primary came in that Obama would be the Democratic nominee for president. It became certain in my mind only after hearing Russert announce it. I called my dad as soon as I heard the news. My best to his family.
This is terrible. Russert seemed like a good guy and was a great journalist. I will never forget watching him announce after the results of the North Carolina primary came in that Obama would be the Democratic nominee for president. It became certain in my mind only after hearing Russert announce it. I called my dad as soon as I heard the news. My best to his family.
This is terrible. Russert seemed like a good guy and was a great journalist. I will never forget watching him announce after the results of the North Carolina primary came in that Obama would be the Democratic nominee for president. It became certain in my mind only after hearing Russert announce it. I called my dad as soon as I heard the news. My best to his family.
This is terrible. Russert seemed like a good guy and was a great journalist. I will never forget watching him announce after the results of the North Carolina primary came in that Obama would be the Democratic nominee for president. It became certain in my mind only after hearing Russert announce it. I called my dad as soon as I heard the news. My best to his family.
This is terrible. Russert seemed like a good guy and was a great journalist. I will never forget watching him announce after the results of the North Carolina primary came in that Obama would be the Democratic nominee for president. It became certain in my mind only after hearing Russert announce it. I called my dad as soon as I heard the news. My best to his family.
This guy knew how to conduct an interview. I always watched. I'm not sure what I'm going to do this Sunday. And to think he died right before Father's Day too. So sad.
This a very sad day in American political history...even though i have not met him, it feels that i just lost a great friend. Meet the press sadly will never be the same without Tim... May his perfect soul Rest in peace...Adieu.
Hearing Andrea Mitchell how only her father and Russert ever called her "Mitch" was beautiful and moving. Russert used to be the best, and always had great integrity. But in the past few years, he played the "gotcha" game so much that he seemed like he lost his rudder. And because in many ways the rest of the political media take their cues from him, in the end it's hard to say if his influence was good or if he was one of the engines driving political journalism toward overcovering petty distractions that do nothing to illuminate politicians' character. Still, a very sad day.
His passing will be long be remembered for its positive impact on the average quality of American journalism.
I can't believe it. For all his faults, he was nonetheless an incredible analyst that had a great amount of gravitas, which is lacking among today's up and coming journalists. RIP.
The medium didn't dominate Russert, he dominated the medium. This is rare.
A Giant Iroko has fallen the political forest is bare.
Also, the MTP music is the most exciting news theme in the history of recorded sound.
I am truly sad and in tears this happened. I was always always looking for his insight everywhere on NBC. Be it the morning shows, calling elections, crunching numbers and his endless anecdotes and charm. This is such a devastating and heart-breaking loss. I am mostly saddened because he was looking to chronicle history, you could see the interest and can't wait for the moment in his eyes every day when he is reporting. It is sad to realize we don't know when we leave this earth and he received a bitter realization today. My heart goes out to his family - all of them, this will not and will never be easy for them. Things will never be same for the profession he loved and the family who loved him. May god save his soul and give his family the comfort they will need.
Simply unbelievable. Tim Russert was THE political analyst of our time. This was the guy that made you stop what you were doing just so you could listen to him. He wasn't a jerk. He wasn't a blowhard. He was a professional. He was so informed, so sharp, so classy, and so dedicated to his profession that you had no choice but to respect him even if you thought his questions were unfair or you disagreed with his analysis. Even people who weren't political junkies respected this man. Those are going to be some very large shoes to fill. What a terrible loss. Rest in peace, Tim. We love you.
It's so interesting that his last interview discussed the incipient and not always beneficial role of the Internet in American politics. As we lay Tim Russert down, up rises the age of Larry Johnson. Sad days ahead.
Great guy, great human being but let's be serious, a mediocre journalist. Very weak on issues and substance, and unwilling to challenge the establishment on any topic of real import.
My enduring Russert memory will always be "Florida Florida Florida." I felt like I bonded with Russert and Brokaw that long night.
We loved Tim Russert. A giant in the journalism profession. My son and I live cities apart. Yet we had a common bond. We always watched Tim Russert and called each other after the show to discuss the show. We will miss him. God bless him and his family.
I'm a bit surprised by the eulogies... maybe I missed something, as a foreigner I've only really started following American politics closely since 2000. And of course I realise that of the dead, nothing but good is said. But since "debates about his style" are invited, and as counterpoint to the raving tributes, I have to say that to me he nothing more than a blowhard. His lack of interest for anything beyond the trivial gotcha or outrage du jour was matched by an unbearable vanity and pomposity. While he endlessly harangued politicians for that quote or admission on the trivial freakshow story of the day that would make him the hero of the chattering punditry that night, he showed little or no interest in confronting them about larger, substantive issues. I'm sure he was a fine human being, and anyone who works hard, plays hard, gives his profession his all until he literally collapses on it deserves respect as a person, as a workfloor hero. But as a pundit, he represented to me the worst of what broadcast journalism has become. The powers that be are given a free pass on the major issues (eg Iraq) and their larger schemes (eg expanding executive privilege, limiting civil liberties), and are piously submitted to at the first notes of patriotic fervor. To fill the void thus created, where once investigative journalism revealed things like Watergate, Russert cum suis have presented a neverending screenshow of fierce and partisan sniping about any random sideshow scandal. The campaign freakshow controversies, the gotchas, the discussions of flag pins and slips of the tongue; they guarantee all the ratings and partisan passions without the risk of actually breaching any particularly controversial question or displeasing the powers that be too much. Maybe Russert was a gifted and groundbreaking journalist before the noughts, that could be - I wouldnt know about that, I wasnt here for that. But in his haranguing, vain pomposity, he embodied to me that new face of broadcast news, the same way that Chris Matthews, the Crossfire heads and the pundits at Fox News do.
I am happy at the comments here. The bashing that is occurring elsewhere is simply shameful. I have tried to be respectful as this towering figure's work has been savaged in the blogosphere and elsewhere over the last few years. It is plainly anyone's right, and at time I thought some criticisms have been fair, but he has remained one of my very favorite political journalists and commentators. Nobody is perfect, but if we think that the world is not better off for "Russert-style" journalism, we are out of our minds. He was a giant, a patriot, (a Buffalo Bill!) and by all accounts an absolute mensch. I will miss him.
I am very shocked at the news of his death. Whenever he spoke I listened intently as what he had to say mattered. It was clear that he loved this country and its people. His understanding of the issues was indisputable and his sincerity always came through. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family. Sincerely, Terry
I am very shocked at the news of his death. Whenever he spoke I listened intently as what he had to say mattered. It was clear that he loved this country and its people. His understanding of the issues was indisputable and his sincerity always came through. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family. Sincerely, Terry
Beyond the tough questioning, he brought a lot more to our discourse on public issues. He had a way of pulling together disparate pieces of information occuring in the political environment and developing thought-provoking and probing questions. In many cases, he got there way before many of us, because you could see it in the questioning. To answer these questions, the guests revealed all kinds of things. Only the most skilled could come through him without having the mask somewhat pulled away. The questions and the resulting answers had a way of helping me to crystalize things in my mind about issues and about newsmakers. With that I could begin my week. Condolences to his family, we mourn with you. He had a swift ride, he had favor with God.
Beyond the tough questioning, he brought a lot more to our discourse on public issues. He had a way of pulling together disparate pieces of information occuring in the political environment and developing thought-provoking and probing questions. In many cases, he got there way before many of us, because you could see it in the questioning. To answer these questions, the guests revealed all kinds of things. Only the most skilled could come through him without having the mask somewhat pulled away. The questions and the resulting answers had a way of helping me to crystalize things in my mind about issues and about newsmakers. With that I could begin my week. Condolences to his family, we mourn with you. He had a swift ride, he had favor with God.
Beyond the tough questioning, he brought a lot more to our discourse on public issues. He had a way of pulling together disparate pieces of information occuring in the political environment and developing thought-provoking and probing questions. In many cases, he got there way before many of us, because you could see it in the questioning. To answer these questions, the guests revealed all kinds of things. Only the most skilled could come through him without having the mask somewhat pulled away. The questions and the resulting answers had a way of helping me to crystalize things in my mind about issues and about newsmakers. With that I could begin my week. Condolences to his family, we mourn with you. He had a swift ride, he had favor with God.
You could always tell with Russert that his love for the American political pageant was palpable. There was an "Ooooh...this is neat!" factor just below the surface of his presentation that was infectious. Yet he also seemed genuinely aware of his duty to try to keep players on the political stage honest. Partially a compliment to him, partially an indictment of turn-of-the-21st-century America, but he was among our best public men.
I just heard and am speechless and extremely sad for his family,I always felt he was real,decent and very fair in his interviews.It was just recently that I made a mental note that he didn't look well.The news report said he just got back from Italy where he attended his son's graduation,God bless him.This may not be appropriate here,but I thought he may have thrown a clot,which many (heart) patients do after a transatlantic flight.Such a loss,he will be missed.
I just heard and am speechless and extremely sad for his family,I always felt he was real,decent and very fair in his interviews.It was just recently that I made a mental note that he didn't look well.The news report said he just got back from Italy where he attended his son's graduation,God bless him.This may not be appropriate here,but I thought he may have thrown a clot,which many (heart) patients do after a transatlantic flight.Such a loss,he will be missed.
up until i first saw tim on meet the press two
Tim Russert was an uber mensch and a class act all the way. Watching him cut a phony politician to ribbons was like watching a skilled surgeon at work. We're all a little worse off as a result of his death. Now, Russert belongs to the ages.
It was always my favorite Sunday show. Not to be callous, but who is going to do MTP now? Is there any word? My guess would be David Gregory. Or Andrea Mitchell. Although, I wish they'd give it to Chuck Todd.
Since I was a kid, I have spent a lot of time in the hospital and Sunday mornings were always the worst since that meant nothing was on the TV to keep me occupied. Around the age of 16, that changed when I began tuning into MTP. Nurses, Techs and Doctors would come in and express their amazement that a teenager was actually watching a "Sunday morning news show..". 9 years later, I can say with a big smile that my fascination with politics began with those early Sunday morning MTP episodes and that gripping intro song. To this day, I don't miss an episode. Nowadays, as others have expressed here, MTP is useful in that it keeps me in touch with my father. We refer to the upcoming show and the guest as if it's a game 7. My first thought when I heard the news was to text my father who upon hearing the news, was equally shocked. No one will be able to replace him -- only succeed him.
Sunday mornings were always - a big breakfast, a pot of coffee, and Meet the Press. Sundays will not be the same.
Better than any political blogger, any "new media" sensation, anyone, period...
Better than any political blogger, any "new media" sensation, anyone... period.
I just got in from work as read about TR on my yahoo news page. My heart is so sad for his wife and son and father. Responsible journalism is now filled with a great void. I loved getting up early on a Sunday morning and first watching Meet the Press and then flipping over to msnbc to stay informed and to watch the "master" do his incredible magic of interpreting, expounding, teaching...I am still in shock. Thank you Mr Russert for enriching so many lives.
I just got in from work as read about TR on my yahoo news page. My heart is so sad for his wife and son and father. Responsible journalism is now filled with a great void. I loved getting up early on a Sunday morning and first watching Meet the Press and then flipping over to msnbc to stay informed and to watch the "master" do his incredible magic of interpreting, expounding, teaching...I am still in shock. Thank you Mr Russert for enriching so many lives.
I just got in from work and read about TR on my yahoo news page. My heart is so sad for his wife and son and father. Responsible journalism is now filled with a great void. I loved getting up early on a Sunday morning and first watching Meet the Press and then flipping over to msnbc to stay informed and to watch the "master" do his incredible magic of interpreting, expounding, teaching...I am still in shock. Thank you Mr Russert for enriching so many lives.
I just got in from work and read about TR on my yahoo news page. My heart is so sad for his wife and son and father. Responsible journalism is now filled with a great void. I loved getting up early on a Sunday morning and first watching Meet the Press and then flipping over to msnbc to stay informed and to watch the "master" do his incredible magic of interpreting, expounding, teaching...I am still in shock. Thank you Mr Russert for enriching so many lives.
Every Sunday morning I had an appointment with Tim and his guests. My involvement with the political process and the elections was piqued by Tim. He was so enjoying this political season and knew how to play it straight. I feel like I knew him, and he will be missed. My condolences to his dad, wife, and son and the rest of his family. There is noone who can fill his chair.
I didn't know Tim Russert, but it seemed like I did. For many, many years I invited him into my home every Sunday to educate me in politics. He always knew the questions I wanted to ask and asked them for me. He knew I didn't want him to let his guest off the hook, so he pressed for answers. He taught me so much about the way Washington works, and in doing so, got me excited, and more involved. Every time I saw him through the electronic window in the corner of my living room, he had a large smile on his face that showed me he really loved being my educator and, even though I never met him, my friend.
Sunday wasn't Sunday without Tim. He was so kind looking and that smile lit up the stage. I learned so much about politics watching his show. He was never rude or unkind. I can't believe he's gone. My condolences to his wife, son and father. He will be dearly missed.
WOW This is really upsetting... I watched his program this past Sunday! He is/was a warm, down-to-earth, kind of guy. Tim Russert had aura of credibility that -- supported by his friendly demeanor -- made him a great and likable journalist. "Meet the Press" will never be the same. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. way too young!!!
Probably because Wes Clark was on MSNBC this morning, but I've been thinking about a 2003 interview by Russert where Clark talked about the White House pressuring him on how to comment on CNN about the war in 2002. Recently all the stories came out about a list of retired military commentators dancing to the Bush administration's tune back then. When I heard the news about Russert today, this came back to me. Odd.
My Sundays will never be the same. Tim was a superb journalist and political analyst. I have benefitted greatly from his clarity of thought and balanced reporting. Tim, you were exceptional. I will miss you terribly. My thoughts and prayers to the entire Russert family and his friends.
My Sundays will never be the same. Tim was a superb journalist and political analyst. I have benefitted greatly from his clarity of thought and balanced reporting. Tim, you were exceptional. I will miss you terribly. My thoughts and prayers to the entire Russert family and his friends.
I am STUNNED ,I will miss you.
I am STUNNED ,I will miss you.
I have been a fan of Russert for a long, long time, but I need to say that I find this coverage excessive, in poor taste, and demonstrative of how the media is completely out of touch with the public it is supposed to serve. Wall to wall coverage? The total Nightly News broadcast? That is the kind of coverage worthy of the death of a president or a pope, but not a reporter. MTP d drew 4 million viewers or so. Most Americans do not know who the heck Tim was. Is there nothing else going on in the world today? Maybe a war? or two? or a recession? or a presidential election? or floods in the Midwest? The Everyman that Russert spoke for would be appalled.
Tim you will be missed!! God be with your faimly at this difficult time. Enjoy your eternal rest!!
He seemed like a good man who thought that he what he was doing was good for America. I believe he was wrong about the second part. This is a sad day for his family, but I am puzzled by the wall-to-wall attention this story is getting.
I am heartbroken and shocked. He was my Sunday morning ritual, since I gave up church. I will feel totally lost on Sunday morning now, without him. I always admired his enthusiasm and intellect, and will miss him greatly. Requiescat in Pacem.
I was so stunned and deeply saddened by this American icon who has left us too quickly. Russert was someone who earned your respect the instant you heard him speak. He pulled no punches, was straight forward but respectful to those he interviewed. May God bless his family, friends and NBC family. Sunday mornings will never be the same.
Jo, I have no idea how anyone with half a brain could include Tim Russert and Gotcha journalism in the same sentence. He was the gold standard of journalist's. He was able to force a guest to give up on their b.s. talking points and answer the tough questions with class and respect. He held politicians to a higher standard, a standard which in a perfect world they would be able to live up to. He put a spotlight on the hypocrisy of some of his guests, through his unparalleled preperation and knowledge of his subject matter. Nothing gave me greater pleasure than watching him tear apart some blowhard when we would discover that they were contridicting their own past statements or positions.
So very sad. A great journalist lost far too young-
I live in Buffalo, NY, which is where Tim was born and raised. He attended the same high school that my father did, although a few years behind him. As a native of Buffalo, Tim was one of our own, the hometown boy made good. Even when he found great notoriety and success in his chosen profession, he never forgot where he came from and took great pride in letting people know he was from Buffalo. He continually stood up for his hometown, even working us into a question he posed to Senator Clinton in one of the debates. He loved his community, his family, his faith, his country and politics. He epitomized what true journalism should be about. My lasting memory of him will be seeing how truly excited he was to be witnessing this most historic of presidential races. He so completely grasped, right from the beginning, what we were experiencing was a once in a lifetime event. To see the nearly giddy reaction he had at the prospect of people actually engaging in deeper political discussions was something I will always remember. He was more than a journalist, he was a true political scholar. God bless you, Tim. You will be deeply missed.
I sat in my car and cried when I heard about the death of Tim Russert. I will miss my Sunday mornings with Tim. I will miss his observations of the next few months. Mostly, I will miss his passion about life and the importance of family. My heart goes out to his family.
He loved politics in a year when the entire county is in a swoon over politics; his enthusiasm has been infectious. How very sad that he won't be here to see the end of this historic election. Sad also that someone who cared so deeply for his father and his son should die two days before Father's Day. The tributes of his colleagues at MSNBC as well as the politicians and policy makers he interviewed say it all. A job well done. RIP
Tim Russert is the epitome of the era of MTP he reigned over: an untalented stooge of big biz mass ownership of media: No thought, much less free thought, Russert plowed furrows of possibilities into fields of inane propaganda. He will only be missed by weasels and the duped masses.
I saw Tim Russert at my son's graduation at Skidmore in 2005. He didn't speak long but just enough. His enthusiasm and amiability yet non-partisan perserverance for probing for the truth seem impossible for anyone else to ever match and that friendly noggin will be missed by millions of Americans.
We may not realize right now how fortunate we were to have had Tim as a part of our lives. We are so much wiser for his work. This is a terrible loss. Our thoughts of Tim - God bless his family.
What DMac said.
I felt as if I'd lost a friend when I heard the news today. Some people are good at being themselves, and Tim Russert was one of them. He seemed so genuine, smart and equitable--someone who took the time to get it right. I believed him and admired his journalistic skills. I found him to always be unquestionably fair. It is poor taste that individuals like Jo use this time to share their unqualified and unflattering views about such a credible and respected journalist as Tim Russert. Leave the judging of his abilities to those who knew him best or shared his field.
I was saddened to hear about Tim Russert. May I make a suggestion about a possible fund for Tim: In this day and age, when so much is known about heart attack prevention, and when we have surgery for blocked arteries that could have saved Tim Russert, why don't we have regular health screenings for heart blockages in place for all Americans beginning at a certain age? Is this something Tim's family or co-workers would be willing to campaign for? Let's not see Tim die in vain for something that could have been prevented.
Tim Russert was the man I wish I could be. Unfortunately, I am not that person. I am so sad! This is not a local loss; this is a loss for our world. I m so so very sad, and I wish it could have been me rather than him!
Since Fallows doesn't have comments, I'll take this opportunity to agree with his statement that Russert's weekly MSNBC/CNBC should have gotten more recognition. I seldom watched MTP in recent years (since the notable clips are always available on other shows or the 'net). But the interview show was one of the last places on TV (along with Charlie Rose) where you could get an hour long, relaxed place in-depth conversation, in contrast to the hurried and formulaic empty calories of most cable chat shows.
Tim Russert was my favorite pundit/jounalist. I will miss him on Sunday mornings. Being the same age as Tim I am reminded how fragile life is and how suddenly it can be taken away. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
For anyone to take this opportunity to disparage Tim Russert, regardless of their views of him a journalist, is reprehensible.
Tim, America will miss you deeply. You brought energy and light to the political process in a way that no one ever has nor ever will. I can't describe how saddened i am about this loss.
i woke up this morning well morning too me around 2 pm pacific time, I work graveyard and always catch hardball at 2 thats when i found out this painful news and after paying tribute and learning what a wonderful guy he was just made me realize how important he was beyond being what I counted on every sunday thank you Tim Russert and my thoughts and prayers for all who were blessed to know you even if it were only for an hour every sunday
i woke up this morning well morning too me around 2 pm pacific time, I work graveyard and always catch hardball at 2 thats when i found out this painful news and after paying tribute and learning what a wonderful guy he was just made me realize how important he was beyond being what I counted on every sunday thank you Tim Russert and my thoughts and prayers for all who were blessed to know you even if it were only for an hour every sunday
His death is a tragedy for his family and friends, and by all accounts he lived a good life. But as for his work, he exemplified the trivialization of politics: for him it was never about the impact of policy on people's lives, but just a question of who made a gaffe and what the polls were doing. And that's how we got Bush instead of Gore, thanks to "analysts" like Russert who weren't interested that the numbers in Bush's tax cut plans didn't add up, or pointing out that Cheney was an ideological nut. Russert was in a position to push for a more substantive discourse, and he didn't. How does it go ? All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing ?
Tim Russert's style of reporting was clean and honest and trustworthy. He brought the news without bias and he told the truth. Other's might slant a story, but if Tim said it, you knew, that to the best of his formidable ability to research, it was true.
Tim was a "cool" news guy which is not something you can say for most of them. It seemed that when he was talking politics he made ir sound and feel as important as it was. I believe he really made a lot of people young and old more interested in world and U.S. political events.
The news of Tim's death, reminded me of the sudden deaths of NBC journalist David Bloom, and the cocodile hunter, Steve Irwin. All of these unfortunate and unplanned deaths have had a way of causing me to take personal inventory of my life, and have a greater appreciation for my wonderfull family, and friends. It makes me aware that I need to take better care of myself. Most importantly it reminds me that we must live each and every moment in a thoughtful manner , embracing life, and being prepared for what lies ahead. RIP Tim.
I was in National Airport when I heard the news, and got off a plane in Phoenix five hours later and it was still on CNN. I feel for Russert's family, but the coverage of this "event" just demonstrates the incestuous nature of politics and journalism and celebrity in Washington DC these days. He was a journalist, for God's sake, and all his pals can do is waste a day (likely days) covering his tragic death, which has real meaning only to his family and friends. The circle jerk continues, along with the trivialization of politics, the erosion of or civil liberties, and other much less meaningful news. When the death of a journalist can shut down a city (Ambinder, in his post), but the continuation of the torture regime cannot, we are all in deep trouble. I agree with "biting my tongue," above.
Tim stood out not because he was 100% fair - no member of the corporate media is untainted - but because he focused on important topics and resisted the tabloidization of the media that has become endemic to the once-great fourth estate. When you look at his 'competition' - i.e. Stephanopolis the clownish joke of a journalist - you realize how much Tim stood out in a profession full of empty suits. I'll miss you, Tim. RIP
Tim stood out not because he was 100% fair - no member of the corporate media is untainted - but because he focused on important topics and resisted the tabloidization of the media that has become endemic to the once-great fourth estate. When you look at his 'competition' - i.e. Stephanopolis the clownish joke of a journalist - you realize how much Tim stood out in a profession full of empty suits. I'll miss you, Tim. RIP
What a tragedy; what a towering personality. Two suggestions: 1. The presidential debates this year should be labeled the "The Russert Presidential Debates." It will thrill Tim no end. 2. NBC should take a bold step: Eugene Robinson should be the new host for Meet the Press. Again, I suspect, it will thrill Tim. Though this may be an issue for down-the-road. Thank you Tim. One-of-countless fans, arya
There is a reason that he was a favorite outlet of the Dick Cheneys of the world. It is documented that they thought he was easy to manipulate and sympathetic to their "message". He was a known proponent of the war and occupation.
Moondancer nails it. Russert wasn't even a journalist, he was just another stooge of the fascistic seller/owner mentality between our gov't and corporations that dignify America as the most corrupt "superpower" in history. Americans are to blame for being whored out by their own government. Overall, we Americans are lazy and believe the lies of TV and print. Religion is not free thought. Whether your blindness/religion be the President, CIA, Jesus, Zoroaster, the Beatles, or Russert, you are being controlled by your blindness and fear. Why is Bush so successful? Because his team turned him into a mix of politics and god and fear. None of it is true. Russert lied to America nearly every time he spoke. Why would a sane person praise him just because he died? What does dying do to forgive what one did during life? To praise him now proves you are either asleep at the wheel or one of his puppeteers.
Tim Russert spoke at my sister's graduation. He took the opportunity to plug his book. Twice.
Some of the last few comments here compel me to ask, again: What is it about Ambinder's blog that attracts the stupids?
The stupidity and laziness of common people like you define this blog. To inquire about your own behavior will not answer your pointless quest.
Lousy debate "moderator". Apparently too enamored of his "access" to endanger it by mentioning the multiple felonies and lies of his sources.
I do not watch much T.V. (I find the commercials unbearable, and can't handle news shows that announce "Thousands die in a natural disaster -- details at eleven. And now, the story of a very special puppy . . ."). For news and journalism, I prefer to read the New York Times and a few quality online sources. Hence, I've never seen Meet The Press. I didn't know who Tim Russert was until he and Stephanopolous hosted that Democratic Primary Debate, and I must confess, that his performance there only reinforced my opinion of the inanity and shallowness of most T.V. journalism. I realize that was only one performance, and I suppose he must have been much better most of the time on Meet The Press, or he would not have inspired the affection that so many readers are expressing for him here.
I MADE IT MY PRACTICE EVERY SUNAY MORNING TO WATCH MEET THE PRESS WITH TIM RUSSERT. I RESPECTED HIM AS A JOURNAIST, A COMMENTATOR, AND A MAN. MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND TO ALL OF US WHO LOVED HIM. I WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH.
I MADE IT MY PRACTICE EVERY SUNAY MORNING TO WATCH MEET THE PRESS WITH TIM RUSSERT. I RESPECTED HIM AS A JOURNAIST, A COMMENTATOR, AND A MAN. MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND TO ALL OF US WHO LOVED HIM. I WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH.
The praise for Russert as a journalist only goes to show how narrow and parochial most of the people who comment on this blog are. I can't imagine how an intelligent educated person could actually think Russert was a talented journalist. Talented entertainer perhaps, but no journalist.
I bet that he was poisoned with Antifreeze by a CIA operative in Italy! Italy is a hotbed for young CIA operatives. Antifreeze will yield heart attack and is difficult to detect in forensics.
I believe that a truly bright light has gone out on politics and in journalism. Tim Russert's passion, zeitgeist, talent, integrity and energy will be sorely missed during this pivotal election year-- and forever more. His excitement and joy (!) over this election mirrored my own. Knowing that his keen mind, sense of justice, love of country, and ability to hold newsmakers accountable, gave me comfort and hope about our country's future . I hope that his fellow journalists will step up to the plate now and pay tribute to Mr. Russert by upholding Mr. Russert's high standards. His generosity of spirit and desire to see other good people succeed are things from which we should all take inspiration. I am so saddened that Mr. Russert will not be here to see how it all turns out. I believe that he would have liked to see the country lifted up...as I hope it will be. He was truly an extraordinary being.
The CIA wouldn't want Russert dead. Why would they kill a perfect stooge who is a talking-point puppet in support of their puppet King Bush?
Here's my reaction to Tim Russert's death and thoughts about what he meant to me: http://jaltcoh.blogspot.com/2008/06/thank-you-tim-russert.html
My comment is enough about Tim Russert already. NBC and MSNBC can please go back to covering actual news such as the fall elections.
He was a Sunday morning fixture for me for so long. Such a tremendous loss. My heart goes out to his family.
I'm with those who sympathize with Russert's family and friends but think his reputation has been vastly inflated. He seems to have been yet one more (albeit brighter and more congenial)talking head who really didn't deserve the title "journalist." Honestly, he was just another less than responsible member of the media, failing to use his position to counter the lies he knew were lies and becoming a liar himself. A bright guy with energy and opportunities, he turned himself into a stooge.
PW, I agree. Why do Americans praise their own propagandists? I feel bad for his family, but he whored out American citizens by lying the gov't lies he lied about. He was in a privileged position in the media, yet chose to be a mouthpiece for the gov't mafia. He is worse than a simple murderer. He was propagandist scum. No wonder gov't pours sympathy:m he was their whore.
Yes, he was our mouthpiece and whore. Yes, we loved him for lying to you. What can you do about it? Jack shit, you stupid American whore.
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Here is a clip of the story as Tom Brokaw broke it.
Posted by UncommonSense | June 13, 2008 4:47 PM