Tim Russert Dies At 58

SputnikPanic writes "Tim Russert, NBC News' Washington bureau chief and moderator of the popular Sunday talk program Meet the Press, has died of an apparent heart attack. He was 58. Russert was known as an even-handed journalist who did not shy away from asking direct and often difficult questions of politicians regardless of their political persuasion. Earlier this year, Russert had been named by Time Magazine as one of the '100 most influential people in the world.'"

Comments

This year's race won't be the same

[Martin Blank]

I always looked forward to how Russert handled interviews and debates. Left or right, loony or sane, one always got a fair hand from him. He'd get on anyone who was hiding something, but I don't know of many who left his presence angry.

He was a rarity in the world of political journalism.

Re:This year's race won't be the same

[Veramocor]

I fully agree. Tim Russert was the embodiment of what 'fair and balanced' should mean. He asked probing questions, slammed politicians with fact based evidence when they flip flopped or lied, liberal and conservative. If all journalists were like him our countries politics would be much better on both sides.

Re:Most influential

[mactard]

Well he'll be missed by those who don't make dumbass analogies.

He asked questions most people would want asked

[MillenneumMan]

Virtually no one in news asks candidates and newsmakers the tough questions anymore. You could always count on Tim to throw hardballs every time. He also was very good at ignoring spin when he didn't get a straight answer. Great interviewer and moderator. Condolences to his family and friends, he certainly was taken before his time.

Re:He asked questions most people would want asked

[Martin Blank]

Most reporters are terrified of not being able to get an interview at the next request. Tim was a great example of someone who could rake a guest over the coals and yet have them leaving with the words, "Until next time." And next time could be only a few weeks later.