Farewell, Tim Russert

 

 

Yesterday, a giant of journalism collapsed at work, and the American people lost a critical advocate who had tirelessly worked to root out the truth behind every politician, and every political move, regardless of party. Tim Russert will be sorely missed, even by people who never watched him on Meet the Press, because it was his dogged research and brilliant insights that led others to some of the most important political stories of our day. Without him, we're bound to miss more than a few.

 

It was Tim Russert who, after looking at all the polling data and the electoral maps, predicted the 2000 election would come down to "Florida, Florida, Florida".  It was Russert who exposed David Duke's run for the Louisiana Governorship on economic policy (and not racial policies) as a sham when he asked (and Duke failed to answer) some basic questions about the state's economy.

 

Tim's demeanor was as inviting and relaxed as his interview questions were razor sharp. He always had a smile, a story about his dad (Big Russ) or his beloved Buffalo Bills. His enthusiasm for politics was infectious, and inspired many people to sit up, take notice and get involved.

 

Not only did Tim deliver to the American people in ways that consistently impressed, but his colleagues describe him as a mentor, a cheerleader, someone who was always there to congratulate them on a child being born or to give them career advice.  Tim didn't just represent the pinnacle of journalism and credibility, he represented the pinnacle of family values, loving thy neighbor and giving back to friends, family and the community.

 

Yesterday, a great American, a great human being, left work early due to circumstances beyond his control. He won't have the joy of covering this historic presidential election, and we won't have the benefit of his coverage. Yesterday, journalists and politicians alike from across the nation lost a close friend. Yesterday, Big Russ lost a son. Tomorrow, Tim's wife Maureen and son Luke will spend father's day without him.

 

Goodbye, Tim. We'll miss you terribly.