Posts with the tag tim russert

Remembering Tim

Khaidji — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:30:17 EDT

Tim Russert was one of the best TV broadcasters is not the best. He showed his total devotion to the task at hand by always ensuring that all the research was ready and in queue for those surprise questions that he snared his unsuspecting guest with, just as they started patting themselves on the back. It has been a year now since his passing and I wish to pay this Tribute to Tim Russert as I remember the irreplaceable lost to TV, his family and friends, the world and me.

Remembering Tim

Remorsefulness I could feel no more

Everything is different than before

My thoughts now are the wonderful memories

Episodes when he interviewed celebrities

Meet the Press was a great addition to my Sundays

Dialogs well research and presented in fresh ways

Ever political leader invited for a chat

Respectfully grilled to discern fiction from fact

I think I learnt more from these interviews

No twisted focus and distortions as in the news

Got the fact straight once and for all listening

Tim’s Christian nature brought an unusual christening

I felt renewed interpretation when I listened to him

Meet the Press continues and in a way so does Tim

In Loving Memory of Tim Russert

Died June 13, 2008

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MSNBC First Read with Chuck Todd

Beth from ColoradObama — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:14:38 EDT

More from Chuck Todd with NBC/MSNBC. No one can ever fill Tim Russert's shoes, but many say Chuck has the same approach to dissecting politics much like Tim.

Tim Russert

Karon from Keller, TX — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:17:49 EDT

I sure wish I had taken the opportunity and time to blog during the height of the primary. What exciting times!! I must admit, though, that I was getting tired toward the end. But we pulled through...

How sad it is that Tim Russert will not be here on Earth to witness the outcome of this election, which surely will result in Obama's presidency. I woke up every Sunday morning to Tim. And, if I couldn't watch, I recorded the program to view later. I'll still tune in to Meet the Press, but I know it will not be the same. You could just sense Russert's excitement and energy for the campaign. Yet, he remained unbiased and fair in his analyses of the issues. He will be missed, but I'm sure he's watching from heaven.

Jonathan Martin Not the Inquiring Reporter

Bill in HI — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 20:16:32 EDT

Jonathan Martin, a Politico Staff Writer may seem like the next Tim Russert, but just look at these C-Span videos and I think you will agree that he is more like an RNC lapdog in charge of smokescreens.

Remembering Tim Russert

Sean Connelly — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 19:47:52 EDT

One week ago America lost one of its best, Tim Russert. I never met Tim, never knew anyone that knew Tim and Tim did not really change my life in any profound way, but he did have a place in my heart. Tim was the face of the first political election I payed any attention to. I was only twelve years old in November, 2000 and could not vote but I was a very avid Al Gore supporter. It was the first time in my life that I was allowed to stay up past 1 A.M. on a school night and I spent the whole night watching Tim and his white board.

Tim Russert-

♫Parodee♫ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 08:13:15 EDT

Tim Russert

♫Parodee♫ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 08:07:43 EDT

His final interview...

Mikeystyle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:59:40 EDT

Missing Russert

Mikeystyle — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:21:24 EDT

So Long "Sweet Prince"

Patrick from Columbus, OH — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:43:59 EDT

To many, a man writing in such terms about another man may seem inappropriate. And while I'm quite comfortable with my masculinity, I personally consider the occassion involving the passing of brother Tim Russert substantially significant enough to warrant such a comment.

I think it could b reasonably argued their exists a certain exotic, passionate relationship between the proletariat and the aristocracy, the democrat and the autocrat. These dualing, interactive relationships have always produced a medium of individuals that perceive, report and protect this internecine of human experiences. In times past called scribes, today they're called journalists. Tim Russert was a product of and personified that expression and experience. He assessed, analyzed, inspired, and defended with honor his devotion to the end.

While on the battlefield of this world, he exuded excellence with a heart of passion for the common ordinary human. It's with the analysis, reporting and exchange of ideas that truth and liberation are afforded the cast down and downtrodden. I think that is mostly why this world will miss our knight in shining armor. His battle this side is done. Like the scent of a rose at night, he's stolen our hearts. But on the other side he's gathered to be amidst that bouquet of roses presented on the "Great Wedding Day". The day of the "Rose of Sharon". Peace...be still!

Tim Russert's Memorial

Dan of Oviedo — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:42:11 EDT

Today was the memorial service for Tim Russert, as everyone knows was the 17-year anchor of Meet the Press on NBC. I wish I had some story about how watching his show changed my life in some way, but I can't because I never watched it. He was a great newsman and person, who will be greatly missed. I certainly will miss his objective and straight-forward interviewing style this political season.

But who can fill this great man's seat in the anchor chair of Meet the Press? An online poll included Tom Brokaw, Keith Olbermann, Chcuk Todd, and Andrea Mitchell (and "other"). Brokaw is retired from regular news programming, and as my favorite news anchor/commentator, he's doing a fine job in specials or random commentary. Olbermann is too biased in his current show, and I don't know if he'd be able to be as objective as Tim was; he'd have to leave his soap box at Countdown. My parents like Todd, but he's not someone I'm very familiar with, though he is in the lead in the poll. I don't like Mitchell that much, and she had the lowest votes in the poll. I personally think David Gregory would do a good job as well as Chris Matthews, though he has political ambitions so he couldn't start something new. What I'm sure of is that NBC will take its time finding an appropriate successor to one of the best interviewers in politics, Tim Russert.

Update (6/23): Tom Brokaw has been selected to moderate Meet the Press through the end of the election season when NBC will name a permanant successor. As mentioned earlier, Brokaw is my favorite newsman and I know he will be great. Maybe I'll start watching MTP more often.

Tim Russert ,The Ultimate Moderator

CorpusMama — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:57:19 EDT

Today will be the day they lay the great Tim Russert to rest. He was such a gracious man.

He didn't want to go on the air at first they say. He was Vice President of NBC News an considered himself an administrator, not a journalist.

I think what I will miss most about him was ability to be a moderator not by a list of rules set in stone, or copied from some other media guidebook. He just knew how to listen.

He also knew that freedom of speech was everything. He didn't quibble with semantics. However, he politely was able to get the answers he wanted by sticking to his own rules and not expecting his guests to do anything more than try their best to be prepared for his show.

As a moderator he was always fair and let everybody speak their peace.

He used editors to clean up mispeaks, rough spots or lengthy conversations. He didn't expect his guests to edit themselves.

I am a moderator here on MYBO, but I am no Tim Russert. There is such a fine line between being a moderator or becoming a censor. Tim Russert knew that. I am not perfect, nor do I expect the members of my group to be perfect. But Tim Russert was the ultimate moderator.

He was also the ultimate father, son and husband and so many other things. There is no replacement for him.

"So, goodbye my friend, I know we'll never see you again, but the love you gave us throughout the years will take away these tears. I'm ok now goodbye my friend.

You can go now.

Goodbye my friend."

Remembering Tim Russert, Host of "Meet the Press" (1950-2008)

Lynne — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:02:33 EDT

The death of Tim Russert last Friday was a blow to journalism. He epitomized the finest of everything to be found in political reporting, emphasizing fairness and compassion with his incisive interviews of politicos and others who dared to face him across the table on Sunday mornings.

Russert is the model and ideal to which any hard-working American should aspire. Every interview found him well-prepared, eager, polite, civil, and compassionate. Even when he caught an interviewee off-guard or woefully under-prepared, Russert would go out of his way to allow the person the chance to recover. In a time when the media is looking for the sound bite that makes or breaks a politician, Russert made certain that his guests had the opportunity to correct their mistakes. If someone still managed to hang him or herself on "Meet the Press", they most certainly deserved it.

Talking about Tim Russert on this site dedicated to the election of Barack Obama has a purpose. The things I most admire about Russert are clearly evident in Obama. He has shown himself to have the same great love of family and friends. Obama supports and encourages people who have larger-than-life dreams. He listens, really listens, to what people have to say. That includes opposing viewpoints. That, more than anything, is what impresses me about Obama.

Barack Obama had the temerity to go on television before all of America to support and defend his Chicago minister. Even when he took the sad step of leaving the church, he did so in such a way as to minimize damage to the church and his minister. Before that moment, I was firmly planted in the Hillary Clinton camp, but his nobility in the face of that particular situation won me over. He showed me that he had a clearer understanding of both the failings and finest aspects of humanity than any other person running for office.

Obama, like Russert, doesn't seem glued to the sound bite. When he speaks, the audience really listens. His ideas aren't trivialized into three-second clips for the evening news. No, he expresses complex ideas and plans for the future in full sentences and clear rhetoric. We haven't seen such care and clarity in public speaking for more than three decades. I for one, want to hear more.

It is my sincere hope that when Obama is elected he will have the chance to implement his goals and vision for the future of America.

Lynne (16 June 2008)

Father's Day Meditation: My Dad and Tim Russert

Dr. Owen Scott, III — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:58:44 EDT

I've read many comments on the web blogs by people saying that there's been too much eulogizing of Tim Russert and too much coverage of his death in the media. My Dad died of pancreatic cancer on Christmas Eve, 2006. Believe it or not, no one in my family finds that depressing. Of course, there wasn't any media coverage. Dad lived a life full of goodness; but, he was a college professor, not a celebrity. He was a WWII vet, modest about himself like Big Russ, hard-working, crazy about my Mom, providing all of us with the basic necessities but nothing luxurious. Dad didn't publish a lot of research or make a big name for himself in academia; but, he helped a lot of graduate students complete their doctorates by helping them with research design, statistics, and writing skills. Many of these students were from places like China and Iran. Dad paid cash for the cars he bought. He never had a balance on a credit card past the due date; he seldom used them at all except when traveling. He brought us up in Athens, Georgia in the 50's and 60's to be Democrats and not to be prejudiced about blacks. I used to get into yelling matches with him about the Vietnam War. The only time he ever voted GOP was Nixon's second term (against McGovern) and he vowed never to make that mistake again. I never knew Dad to tell a lie. He felt that society should accept gay people (and none of his 3 kids are gay). He was an agnostic most of his life. In his final 10 years or so, he started going to church with my Mom, a lifelong Methodist. I’m not sure if he actually believed what Christians are supposed to believe; but, I know it made Mom happy.

One major difference between Dad and a guy like Russert is that Russert was rich and famous. Russert worked as a Beltway reporter, so he had to be an insider there to get access to the newsmakers. Russert was an old-fashioned, All-American fellow. Some of us probably think that's corny, uncool. Some feel that he didn’t do enough to call Bush and Cheney on their phony run-up to the invasion of Iraq. He had lots of conservatives on Meet The Press; and, he was eulogized today by Hannity on "Faux News." But he liked Chuck Berry. He not only advocated good values such as caring about ones family and working hard to achieve excellence, he lived by them. It's a free country and it’s OK for people to express their distaste for him or to point out his failures as a journalist. His life was no more valuable than that of an Iraqi or anyone else’s. But in the humble opinion of this writer, Tim Russert’s life is worth examining. Some of us find the heavy coverage helpful and interesting. I know a lot more about Russert, good and bad but mostly good, than I did three days ago. We can't examine the lives of every person who lives and dies; but, I'm in favor of examining the lives of well-known people who die so that we may learn something from them, good or bad. If you could examine the life of my Dad, you would learn a lot.

The House That Tim Built

Crush — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:05:24 EDT

The House That Tim Built

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The moderator's chair on NBC's "Meet the Press" stood empty on Sunday in remembrance of Tim Russert, the man who had occupied it for 17 years.

The moderator's chair on NBC's "Meet the Press" stood empty Sunday in remembrance of Tim Russert.

1 of 2 more photos »

As the show's host, Russert became a mainstay of television journalism's political talk.

He died Friday of apparent heart attack, according to the network. He was 58. The network said Russert collapsed while at work.

Colleague and former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw, who broke the news about the anchor's death, spoke on Sunday the familiar first four words of the news program, "Our issues this Sunday." He noted that those were the same words Russert had been recording for the show when he collapsed and died.

"Our issue this sad Sunday morning is remembering and honoring our colleague and friend," Brokaw said.

"He said he was only the temporary custodian," of this program, which he called a national treasure, Brokaw said. "Of course, he was so much more than all that."

Brokaw sat among some of Russert's other colleagues in the front of the show's set, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin and political analysts Mary Matalin and James Carville, who is also a CNN contributor.

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"This is where you separated the men from the boys," said Matalin, who is married to Carville. "You weren't a candidate until you came on this show."

A montage of clips from past years showed various politicians -- former President Bill Clinton, President Bush, former presidential candidate Ross Perot, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff -- sitting across the table from Russert. Watch politicians, journalists pay homage to Russert »

Some showed the politicians as they squirmed.

"Look, I was asked -- I shouldn't have said that," New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson said on the show in May 2007.

Richardson had appeared on the show as part of the "Meet the Candidates 2008" series, and was grilled by Russert about his contradictory positions on numerous issues.

"So you're - I've been in public life for 25 years, you're going to find a lot of these; it seems you found them all here," he said, smiling somewhat sheepishly.

"I'm just trying to set the record and trying to give you a chance to respond, which is fair," Russert had responded.

In another clip at the end of an April 2006 show, Sen. John McCain told Russert, "I haven't had so much fun since my last interrogation."

Russert had appeared as an unlikely icon for television news, with his cherubic face and dimpled chin, but he was a prolific interviewer and tireless journalist, one with an intimidating breadth of political knowledge and insight.

"It was a very easy show to prepare for in the sense that you knew he was not going to ask you any questions out of left field; you knew his thing was going to be entitlements, you knew his thing was going to be past statements, you knew where he was coming from," Carville said Sunday of "Meet the Press."

Matalin countered: "It was simple in the fact that there was no 'gotcha,' but it was not easy. Because you had to be 10 questions deep, because he was going to be 12 questions deep."

As news of his death hit the airwaves and Internet, tributes rolled in -- with nearly everyone praising his prowess as a journalist and as an interviewer.

Bush, in a written statement, called Russert "a tough and hardworking newsman."

"He was always well-informed and thorough in his interviews," Bush said. "And he was as gregarious off the set as he was prepared on it."

Longtime CBS news anchor Walter Cronkite said, "Broadcast journalism lost one of its greats today. Tim Russert was a giant in our field -- a standard-bearer of journalistic integrity and ethics. His masterful interviews and roundtable discussions are legendary. This is a tragic loss for journalism and for all who were privileged to know him."

But colleagues who knew him best also praised his warmth, and described him as a mentor.

"I think it's so poignant that we're talking about Tim on Father's Day because he was a father to so many of us," said California first lady Maria Shriver, who once worked for NBC.

On Friday, NBC chief foreign affairs correspondent Andrea Mitchell said, "He was always teaching each of us to be as rigorous as he was in looking at all the facts, examining everything and then being as balanced and fair and down-the-middle as anyone could possibly be."

Washingtonian Magazine once dubbed Russert the best and most influential journalist in Washington, D.C., describing "Meet the Press" as "the most interesting and important hour on television."

In 2008, Time Magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world. His two books -- 2004's "Big Russ and Me" and 2006's "Wisdom of Our Fathers" -- were both New York Times bestsellers.

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"Tim Russert was a giant among midgets. The United States needs more Tim Russerts. He will be very dearly missed." -- Steve Ford

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Sundays won't be the same without Tim Russert

Charles Penny — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:04:57 EDT

I was very saddened by the news of Tim Russert’s sudden passing away on Friday, June 13. Russert was an exceptional journalist who put his heart and soul into getting the truth from people in leadership roles in politics and carefully analyzing political events as they developed.

Most American viewers of ‘Meet the Press’, moderated by Russert over the past 17 years, see this program on their TVs on Sunday mornings. As an American abroad in Spain and with Spain being 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, I wait with anticipation until Sunday evening each week to see the netcast of this always insightful program. It has been my best cure for the end-of-the weekend blues that can come in gearing up for the work week ahead. ‘Meet the Press’ will go on, but it won’t be the same without Russert at the helm.

In addition to ‘Meet the Press’, I also looked to Tim Russert first for his analysis of ongoing developments in politics and, especially, of this historic election of 2008. Living abroad, I got great comfort from being connected by Russert to events and people back home who have been part of this election all through the primary season. As Barack Obama said in his observations on Friday upon hearing of Russert’s sudden death, “Tim is irreplaceable.” I hope that the role he played as a “standard-bearer” of high-quality, balanced and ethical journalism will be heeded by those who survive him in reporting political news. I notice that many of my fellow Obama supporters are also fans of Russert, given the more than 1000 responses here on this website to Barack Obama's statement on our common loss of Russert's presence.

We could always count on Russert to get to the bottom of the issues and provide well-researched analysis. Furthermore, his own family background, coming from a blue-collar background of modest means is a great example of American Dream come true. The way Russert lived serves as an inspiration to do our best and put the same kind of enthusiastic energy into our own pursuits as he did into his. Above all, in everything he did and the down-to-earth way he presented himself, Russert's viewers always saw what a fine and decent human being on and off camera he was.

As Obama shifts gear from the primaries to the general election campaign, I am grateful for having had Russert’s reporting on the events in this election which I could see his genuine enthusiasm for in ‘Meet the Press’ and the debates he moderated, and the day-to-day political analysis he gave. Tim Russert will be sorely missed and never forgotten. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues.

"Go get 'em:" A reply to those who object to coverage of Tim Russert

Dr. Owen Scott, III — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:29:33 EDT

The notion that the media is celebrating its own self-importance in covering the death of Tim Russert borders on being out of touch with reality. Mr. Russert was an outstanding human being; many, many people in the audience cared about him and looked to him for serious, trustworthy reporting. The coverage is helping us work through the loss of a close friend. Keep on covering and celebrating his life as long as you wish to and “Go get ‘em!”

Tim Russert. approximately 3:00pm 06-13-08

Herman Soto — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 19:02:24 EDT

I had MSNBC in the background as I laid in bed, fairly sick. I was checking my email, when I heard in the background the "NBC Special Report/Breaking News" music-intro that is so famous. din dun don. When I looked up at the TV and I saw Tom Brokaw's face on the screen, I knew it was bad news.

"Tim Russert, moderator of Meet The Press, has died."

This is a terribly sad day for America, and it undoubtedly will reverberate on throughout all of the world. Journalism, Politics, and all of the entertainment and government industries will never be the same.

Tim Russert had a neutrality that the rest of us can only dream of. He had a kind of presence as someone you trusted to be fair. He wasn't a prosecutor, like so many journalist, pundits and commentators tend to present themselves... he was an advocate. An advocate for the country, for the American people and for the truth. He knew what the avarage guy wanted to know.

Tim Russert was not a partisan hawk, most people didn't even know whom he voted for or what party he was a member of. But he had a sense of good eggs and bad eggs. Not only was he not afraid to call them out, he felt a sense of responsibility to the American people. To the truth.

Tough but always fair, Tim Russert will go down in history as one of the best.

I will not soon forget this day.

NBC News’ Washington bureau chief and the moderator of “Meet the Press”
TIM RUSSERT (1950-2008)
RIP

Tim Russert and Future Journalism

Doug Robinson — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:17:33 EDT

It can only be hoped that collective grief combined with general recognition of Tim Russert’s great contribution to television journalism will serve to elevate the general standard at least for a while. The climate giving rise to the overall success of polarized reporting so often shown in FOX News broadcasts is systemic in our political culture. It may not change until a new administration takes office, gradually renewing American faith that progressive rather than reactionary ideas can in fact bring beneficial results for all elements of our society.

Election 2008

Robert Strunk — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 15:51:18 EDT

The campaign goes on for the next president here in Bloomington. Watching Senator Obama talk about Tim Russert shows the kind of man Mr. Obama is. Tim Russert was truly the last of the great journalists in the United States. He was not only a great journalist but a great family man. On this Fathers Day his friends and family will mourn the loss of a father, a son, and husband. Tim will be missed in this historic election. Nobody knew more about politics than Tim Russert. Never afraid to ask the tough questions of any polition, whether republican or democrate. Nobody can replace the man that loved the game of politics or football. Tim Russert is going to be missed by all of us and I send my condolences to all of his friends and family. Thanks Tim for your fantastic professional and honest journalism. Politics will go on but it will not be the same in November without you.

Remembering Tim Russert

Carmen — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 15:41:07 EDT

I didn't hear the shocking news about Tim Russert until I returned home, around 8:30pm after seeing an advance screening of a wonderful new film, "Kit Kittredge, An American Girl," about a 10 year old in Depression era Cincinnati, whose dream is to become a journalist. Her story inspired me as I walked through Central Park, all the while oblivious to this bombshell of a loss. Here was this little girl who was obsessed with telling the truth, and her intellectual curiosity was delightful to watch on that movie screen. But as I instinctively turned on the television at home, thinking I would watch the second half of "Countdown With Keith Olbermann" I knew something was wrong immediately. There was Keith with this sad look in his eyes, a plain blue background, not his usual set at 30 Rock, and there were these words on the TV screen: "TIM RUSSERT, NBC NEWS WASHINGTON BUREAU CHIEF, DIES AT 58."

I just can't believe it, it seems surreal, these past 24 hours. I wrote this post on the NY Times blog:

I’m stunned and saddened by the sudden loss of Tim Russert, a giant of a journalist, and on the eve of this Father’s Day, a giant of a man. To say that he will be missed is a gross understatement. My heartfelt condolences to his family, Buffalo and his extended family at NBC. I can’t imagine this election without him. He was a great American. I lit a candle for his sweet repose and for the love of his family. The world is a better place because of Tim Russert. If it’s Sunday, it’s Meet The Press, and we will always remember.

Tim Russert truly was one of the good guys, and what made him so special is that he exemplified what a decent human being can be in the rip-roaring, tumultuous world of Washington politics. He could be simultaneously considered the knife that cut through the same old political BS, but also, the quintessential teddy bear of a nice guy. I will miss his enthusiasm, his thoroughness and breadth as a political interviewer and analyst, but I think most of all, I'll miss his smile and his ebullient warmth that he expressed with the way he lived his life and his love for his family.

Tim Russert on Obama

Karen — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:30:56 EDT

Sunday morning will never be the same. For many of us Meet The Press was like going to church on Sunday. There will never be another like Tim. He will be greatly missed, but I will especially feel the loss on election night in November. This election was so important to him. You could see how he lit up when he was on TV talking about it, that twinkle in his eye that said this is what I live for..

Although no one knew who Tim voted for, one thing I found so telling about the charachter of the man is that he was greatly impressed with Senator Obama, not becuase of policy isuues or the Senator's position on the war or economy, but becuase he felt Barack is such a genuine and honest man. That is what Tim was, and he was able to recogonize that same sense of honesty, integrity, and humility in Senator Obama that was so evident in himself.

God bless you Tim. There will be a void tomorrow morning and every Sunday morning to come.

First Blog!

Rocketman — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 13:52:37 EDT

It was shocking to hear about Tim Russert yesterday. What a guy, he was the intense political scientist with the white board and the mischievous smile, enjoying every minute of his job. He should have had a white lab coat on. He will really be missed.

Sundays Will Never be the Same

Tim — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 12:37:27 EDT

I was in Dulles yesterday watching the breaking news that Tim Russert died. For many years now, like many of you, I have tuned in to Meet the Press as a normal part of my Sunday mornings (or afternoon or evening thanks to Tivo).

Following the Don Imus comments on the Rutgers Women's basketball team, on April 15, 2007 Tim Russert had a panel on that was supposed to talk about Imus's hateful commentary as well as the presidential primaries. The panel consisted of John Harwood, Glen Ifill, Gene Robinson, and David Brooks. Russert saw that the discussion among the two black and two white commentators was so important and insightful that he skipped the primary conversation and stayed with the race in America conversation. Russert also stayed out of the way and allowed the conversation to flow naturally.

To my mind this was the best 20 minutes of television commentary I have ever seen. I still have it recorded and hope to continue to watch it for the rest of my life. I'm grateful to Tim Russert for having the ability to see that the conversation between Ifill, Robinson, Harwood, and Brooks was important to the country and to allow it to continue. The transcript can be found here. The full text is below.

We've lost a truly compassionate, thoughtful, and principled human being. Sundays will never be the same for me.

The Russert Legacy

Cactus Wren from Tucson — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 11:50:30 EDT

Been thinking about Tim since I heard around lunch hour - just got home and am reading all the comments for some comfort.

Sara G., that nugget of Russert truth, and connection to all of us, where he said he would love to be teaching history in an inner city school on Wednesday, sums up the man in so many ways.

I am also 58, and Tim has been in the same stretch of history for a good part of my life, and hundreds of Sunday mornings. I would only hope that his legacy of always having that sense of history, and being part of it, of being able to set aside his ego, not ever taking anything personally, or making assumptions. He asked my questions - and got them answered. That fine Jesuit education, which doesn't tell you what to think, but just how to think, and how to analyze and investigate any problem with clarity showed itself in his every commentary, interview and panel.

Devoted father, advocate for WE THE PEOPLE, and pursuer of the truth - supporter of all his colleagues and co-workers, always bringing out the best.

A life is a piece of work beyond our understanding - God's work. May we all live up to our God given potential as he did.

Thoughts and prayers are with the family, and Luke, it will get better. Those we hold in our hearts are never truly gone!

Tim Russert

BobJones — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 06:44:09 EDT

I was taking a quick look at my email yesterday...quickly deleting the accumulating garbage...when I saw one from NCforObama entitled 'Tim Russert Has Died'. My thought was that "this is not funny". I followed the link to find out that it was true. Tim and I were both born in 1950. He was not someone that I ever met in person but felt like he was one of my high school friends. Routines on Sunday morning revolved around being promptly present with breakfast in front of Tim at 9:00. We never called it Meet The Press. It was a call from the porch to the back yard where I was working from my wife saying "Tim will be on in ten minutes...hurry up!". It almost makes me feel silly now in a way. We sound like my parents. But the truth is...Tim Russert was THAT important. His interviews and discussions were revealing and allowed us to use our own brains. They educated us without dosing us with liberal or conservative values. He was a good natured, sports loving, family man...from my generation. He spoke the truth. There are none like him...and we will miss him greatly.

Random Acts of Kindness for Barack

Tammy — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:48:03 EDT

Perhaps it's the nature of death that causes me to take a good hard long look at my life and reassess what is truly important to me... Hearing of the loss of Tim Russert really shook me. I will sincerely miss his journalistic integrity.

During my pondering today, I have again concluded that for me, a truly important goal is to try and make my corner of the world a better place, one little bit at a time. I'd like to ask you to join me in that effort by participating in an event I've sponsored.

Take a moment and mentally send good wishes to Barack, his family, friends, supporters, and all Americans. Then take just a few minutes out of your day and try to make a small difference around you... try to make someone smile, help someone who needs it, say a prayer, make something somewhere just a bit brighter.

Barack was right when he says we all have the power of change. Let's use that power to make a difference today.

Wishes for happiness, peace and prosperity to you all!

A Personal Tribute to Tim Russert

CorpusMama — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:52:47 EDT

I was never a big Tim Russert fan. I never watched Meet the Press or The Tim Russert Show. I never read his books about Big Tim and the love of his father. I don't remember seeing him during the 2000 election.

At the time I was a Republican. I watched FOX News that long night.

Yet during the debates, there he was. I watched him every night during the Democratic primaries.

After NC and Indiana Keith Olbermann asked him who the DEM nominee would be. He declared without a doubt in his voice and that sparkle in his eyes, the DEM nominee would be Barack Obama.

After Obama became the official presumptive nominee it was Russert who declared that we were witnessing a historical moment that would go down in history.

What an ironic twist of fate that he will not be here to witness the election of our first African-American President, and how cruel that he died on Friday the 13th, the start of Fathers' Day Weekend.

Rest in peace. You will be missed by all. You were the voice of authority but of fairness and honesty as well. I am sure you are at home with Our Father and you are watching over us now. You will go down in history as well. So goodbye, the good do die young.

Thank You Tim Russert

I'm not Political, I'm GRASSROOTS! — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:28:24 EDT

I can't imagine waking up this Sunday morning and not having my typical marathon political talk show ritual in which I sit in bed sipping my coffee, eating my toast and watching you kick ass on Meet the Press.

You helped find the truth in a sea of lies and deception from the other networks. You told it to us straight, you exposed the frauds, introduced us to a fresh new perspective and you always had a big smile to send us off for the day.

You were way too young, I thought for sure that I would be watching you for the next 20 years. I can't imagine anyone who could take your place.

You were the best of the best and I thank you for my Sunday mornings.

Goodbye, Tim

Terryana — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:08:22 EDT

I am, as I am sure everyone reading this is, saddened by the untimely passing of Tim Russert. He was one of the few journalists that really knew his stuff and was not afraid to ask the tough questions. He seemed the type not to let his personal opinions or views shadow his interviews. I was looking forward to his coverage of the Democratic Convention in Denver and, more importantly, watching him with his white board showing how McCain had no chance in hell of winning then declaring Barack Obama the next President of the United States of America. Today is indeed a sad day.

Tim Russert

Iowa Obamacan — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:06:22 EDT

I was extremely saddended today to hear of the loss of Tim Russert. I have developed a love of politics over the last few years and I credit Meet the Press & Tim Russert with a great deal of that love. I have learned to look at both sides of a story because in life, as in politics, most stories aren't either completely black or completely white. I can honestly say that I never saw Tim as being slanted toward either party. I have learned a lot about Tim as the television programs have told us more about his life, but I think the fact that he stayed true to his roots is the most impressive. His devotion to his country, his Catholic faith, and most of all his family is admirable. We will all miss him!

Tim Russert

Robert Strunk — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 23:49:09 EDT

We lost a great political mind today in Tim Russert. The most honest journalist of our time, Tim Russert knew politics inside and out. He was never afraid to ask the tough questions and wouldn't take no as an answer. Mr. Russert was one of a kind and he will be missed. I send my condolences to his family and friends. Sunday will never be the same..... this political season will not be the same.

Tim Russert

Christopher — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:24:53 EDT

For I dont know how many Sundays, Meet the Press was appointment tv. Coffee, the sunday paper, a corn muffin and Meet the Press. My wife knows not to bother me that hour. I would always say with Tim after he summarized who was going to be on and what they would talk about, he would say "But First !" . I would always laugh at that line. I'm from Ohio, my dad died 10 years ago and somehow, carrying on his sunday rituals made my dad seem still alive. An even better Russert show is on Saturdays, where he does one hour with usually one subject, usually authors, on MSNBC, you all should check it out....

R.I.P. Tim Russert

Common Sense for Obama — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:21:41 EDT

It is really heartbreaking to be talking about all the wonderful things that Tim Russert was… as if we don’t have the most historic of presidential elections just around the corner. I’m watching Chuck Todd on MSNBC right now and wondering the same thing he is: who’s going to hold these guys’ feet to the fire on Sunday mornings now that Tim’s gone? I just can’t believe Tim Russert’s gone.

He was the true partisan for the truth, which epitomized what journalism should be about. Most of today’s journalists can’t even find the word objective in the dictionary. Tim was it. He asked very tough questions and was always armed with the truth. The only gotcha games he played were not only grounded in verifiable fact but were also relevant to the situation at hand. I loved how he used the power of the archive and that all too familiar truth card to make politicians, journalists, and anyone brave enough to come to Meet The Press literally squirm in their seats when they tried to stretch the truth.

I’m still stunned that Tim Russert’s dead. I basically get my daily dose of Keith Olbermann, Chris Mattews, maybe Dan Abrams and perhaps Anderson Cooper, Wolf Blitzer and Larry King, then turn to Chuck Todd for the raw math and to Tim Russert to pull it all together. I’m pretty astute about seeing through politicians’ bull but watching Tim Russert’s analysis always brought a deeper understanding of the issues.

The guy worked like 30 hours a day on election days. I swear he was on Hardball at 5pm, do David Gregory’s show thereafter, stuck around for Keith Olbermann and Dan Abrams, and then I’d go to bed. Sure enough he was hitting the circuit again the following morning on Morning Joe! Everyone wanted a piece of him. He was the only true honest broker in news and broadcast journalism. I always felt like Tim Russert was asking these politicians the questions I wanted to get the answers to.

Now I have to cut through all this political bull s**t by myself because I can’t trust any of these talking heads on TV anymore. What a shame. What a shame.

Rest in peace, Tim Russert.

Tim Russert

Mike P — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:29:31 EDT

I was on the road when my local news radio, KNX1070 announced the death of Tim Russert, the Host of Meet the Press. I couldn't believe it...and then all the tributes started within the community here. He was a man to be admired and he will be missed. I know life will go on, but he made a mark and a legacy to be proud of.

Tim Russert, Rest in Peace

Benjamin Vos, Nashville — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:53:08 EDT

Obama on Russert's death:

I’ve known Tim Russert since I first spoke at the convention in 2004. He’s somebody who, over time, I came to consider not only a journalist but a friend. There wasn’t a better interviewer in TV, not a more thoughtful analyst of our politics, and he was also one of the finest men I knew. Somebody who cared about America, cared about the issues, cared about family. I am grief-stricken with the loss and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. And I hope that, even though Tim is irreplaceable, that the standard that he set in his professional life and his family life are standards that we all carry with us in our own lives.

Tim Russert

Mike — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:07:59 EDT

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25145431/

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Russert family.

Tim Russert dies of apparent heart attack

Mikeystyle — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:51:48 EDT

Tim Russert was one of the toughest, yet fair-minded journalists ever. He always conducted great interviews, never gave in to spin and never had a problem asking tough question and getting answers--yet without being personally offensive or hostile.

His passing is a tremendous loss to the field of journalism.

Hillary Clinton on Meet the Press Sunday

Hans from SE PDX — Sat, 24 May 2008 09:41:51 EDT

Here's my prediction, MtP funny man Tim Russert will have Hillary Clinton on this Sunday so they can joke around about Assassination gaffs. What is even more ridiculous, Russert is probably on vacation this weekend, but he would go into work just to do this!

you all do remember last week joking around with our favorite baptist funny man preacher, Mike Huckleberry? youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYHHGlvVkhk&hl=en

Sad reflection upon our leaders, even sadder commentary on the journalists!

Tim Russert says Obama is the Nominee

Deborah Simmel — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:00:55 EDT

What a wonderful morning! (Even on just four hours of sleep . . .) Take a listen to NBC's venerable Tim Russert as Indiana's final count was coming in last night.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEV_fTu8taU

The Patriotism of Stupid White Men?: Lapel-Pin Patriotism vs. Responsible Citizenship

Policybusters — Mon, 05 May 2008 20:37:04 EDT

As a person of European-Mediterranean heritage, the insistently shameful stupidity of white media pundits over this past week and weekend in response to the Wright controversy has made me so sick of heart that I've been compelled to write out some basic notes (for my own sanity's sake, if nothing else) about what distinguishes the true patriotism of democratic citizens from the false patriotism of those whom Michael Moore has so appropriately labeled "stupid white men"--who often happen to be the most privileged and powerful in our society and politics.

(This suggests a new formula for the production of stupidity: whiteness + power = stupidity; and the more power and privilege one has--especially when that power is in the media or politics--the more stupid many seem to get....)

And PLEASE NOTE: since "stupid white man" is a state of being rather than a skin color or gender, you do not need to be either light-skinned or in possession of an xy sex chromosome to fit the category of "stupid white men.")

Inspiration for these notes on patriotism: The white media pundits and corporate media structure cannot seem to get enough of asking Obama about his relationship with Rev. Wright. Instead of focusing on the real problems and policy issues confronting this country, they would rather focus on white noise, repeating the same dumb questions over and over again:

Why don't you wear a flag pin, Mr. Obama?

Why would your wife ever suggest she had problems with the way this country has been run, Mr. Obama?

Why did you wait so long to renounce your pastor, Mr. Obama?

Why didn't you hold your hand over your heart that one time when saying the pledge of allegiance, Mr. Obama?

Poor Focus on Meet The Press

ZapDuff — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:19:42 EDT

The following is the message I sent to Tim.Russert@nbcuni.com. Feel free to send your own observations via: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6872152/

Save the Best for Last

Obamanizer — Sun, 04 May 2008 12:05:22 EDT

At the end of "This Week", the exclusive town hall interview by George Stephanopoulos with Senator Clinton, he mentions that invitations were also sent out to Senator Obama and Senator McCain and that he hopes that they will take him on.

Though following the foreplay that lead to the Sunday Morning Talkshow War with democratic contestants it appears more as it was Senator Obama first who agreed on to appear on Meet the Press with Tim Russert and then Senator Clinton had to find herself a platform.

So when should Senator McCain or Senator Obama take on the invitation? Just before the South Dakota or the Puerto Rico primaries?

I Couldn't Bear an Obama Bust

ObamaMama Kris — Sun, 04 May 2008 08:47:43 EDT

Big day in the Fort. The Obamas will be downtown for a "family picnic" at Headwaters Park. I'm delighted they'll be here (should be a nice, sunny day out, too), but after my Bubba Bust yesterday, I'm not about to go down there to be part of the chaos! It will be crazy!

I"m looking forward, however, to watching NBC's "Meet the Press" in a few minutes to see how Tim Russert handles his opportunity to interview Senator Obama.

MSNBC seemed to run it's Obama/Rev. Wright special multiple times yesterday. I'm not sure there's an objective way to determine whether that particular show is a + or - for the Obama campaign, but I just feel uncomfortable with the graphics promoting it -- and host Dan Abrams has a pretty snarky vibe going throughout. I don't know. Maybe I'm mis-reading it.

Today on Meet the Press

Cindy in Salt Lake — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 19:24:24 EDT

Today on Meet the Press, the following was said in discussing who should be Obama's choice as VP. Discussion participants were Democratic strategists James Carville and Bob Shrum. Republican strategists were Mary Matalin and Mike Murphy. At one point, Murphy nominates Carville for VP:

MR. MURPHY: I, I think one of the political rules of running-mate picking is to be sure not to choose somebody who looks like a signal by your weaknesses. You know, where you choose what you're not to remind everybody what you're not, because generally the VP doesn't do a lot for you. I think he needs a small town, gun owning pro-Christian now--so I nominate Carville--who's also valuable.
MR. CARVILLE: (Unintelligible). Does that count? I could shoot a gun before I could ride a bike.
...
MR. RUSSERT: On the Democrat side?
MR. MURPHY: You know, I think Obama might try the--either the anti-war general, which is great on paper, really hard to do. Or maybe a reform male--Bloomberg, a Tom Kean, some Republican to do the bipartisan thing. I don't know, but it will be awful clever.
MR. RUSSERT: McCain with Romney or...
MR. SHRUM: Rob Portman, the former congressman from Ohio. I think you have to bet that Obama's going to be the nominee, and I think under those circumstances he'll pick someone with a military background despite what he said, and I think Wes Clark might be it.
MR. CARVILLE: By a long-shot and I don't know if it's even a Democrat, but I think General James Jones. General Zinni, maybe a four-star Marine general, NATO commander. I mean it might not even be, but somebody like that would be--I'm a former Marine. Let's get somebody from the corps there.

(Read full transcript here)

meet the press today

Molly LaCombe — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 13:23:59 EDT

Oh God, I am watching Meet the Press right now and James Carville was just called on his "Judas" comment about Bill Richardson. His excuse is that he was misquoted but then went on to say that there were things behind the scenes that caused him to feel that way about Bill. So, he chose to not talk about those as if it were a private thing between him and Bill, saying that Bill knows why he said it. He said he was "happy" he said it. What a high school girl!! Come on Carville! That's what high school girls do. :-) But it's ok for him to say Bill's a Judas knowing that this comment will make national news. Ladies and Gents, these are the kinds of people "advising" our politicians...in the Clinton campaign (and McCain too, I think). Guess Hill's teaching him high school girl's tricks.

So speaking of Hillary, I was so proud of Tim Russert that he showed every single time that Hillary talked about being under sniper fire...all of them...not at 11 pm, but at 3 other times of day: 9 am, 2 pm and 7:30 pm. Carville, with his glossy head, looked a bit "pink" all over...couldn't look anyone in the eyes, and couldn't get that embarrassed "oh s___ what do I say to this?" look off his face. I thought I would die laughing.

I am bothered, however, that this isn't more of an issue of discussion in the press. I mean, when a presidential candidate lies about going into a war zone, pretends to have been a real brave trooper, at a time when we have men and women living in such conditions DAILY for years now, that's a bit over the top. Yet, the press isn't really going after her on this...or not very hard. They've just chuckled at her lies.

On Meet the Press, when Tim showed this and started the conversation, Mary Matalin, and the other three guys just sat there laughing at Carville, and laughing at how the Clintons do all this lying, or I guess the Clintons would call it "stretching the truth for a good story". But in politics "Gee, this is so Clintonesque..." and isn't it funny that they lie so blatantly to us!? I am sure the soldiers wouldn't be laughing, or the parents of people who had a son or daughter die by sniper fire. Then they went on to talk about how the Clintons know that when the campaign focuses on them THEY LOSE, so they insist on turning it around to THE PEOPLE because they know that's how THEY WIN.

I want to turn this back to the Clintons, who the press is giving a free pass to a certain extent....not completely, but Obama wouldn't live this down EVER in the press. And it certainly wouldn't be laughed at...nope. He would be massacred by the press. Why is that?

And doesn't it bother anyone that Hillary is in league with McCain? Both sniping at the word "bitter" to try to make Obama look like an elitist? McCain comes out of his campaign to join her in this? Only Chris Matthews has discussed this and only at a superficial level. I just wonder how much Clinton supporters would like to know she's in cahoots with Bush, I mean, McCain?

Good grief.

Americans Hate to Lose...? So What's a "Win"?

Dorothy — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:45:50 EDT

Tonight I heard Tim Russert on Chris Matthews say that the Democrats 'weak point' was that "Americans hate to lose", so the Republicans could win the election merely by SAYING, basically, "Go Fight, WIN!!" RAH RAH!! But what, exactly, do we count as a "WIN"?

First, it was "GET THE BAS@#$% WHO DID 9/11!!" Al Qaeda. Did we go get them? NO. Win? NO.

Next, it was "GET THE WMD! " No WMD's. "Win"? - Can't win over something that doesn't exist. But we won, then, right? Oh, alright, YES. Did we leave? NO.

Then it was "GET SADDAM - HE'S AN EVIL DICTATOR - HE HELPED AL QAEDA!!"

Any connection to Al Qaeda? NO. Evil dictator - Yes, but we helped him get there.

Did we get him? YES. Win? Yes. Did we leave? NO.

"BOMB'EM BACK TO THE STONE AGE!" We did. They are. Win? On a technicality - we had more and bigger bombs. But did we WIN? OK, sure. Yes. Did we leave? NO.

We can't leave now - they'll have a 'civil war'!! So if they have a civil war, and we 'save' them from it, do we win? Well, no. Why not? Even if we caused this civil war in the first place, we cannot WIN their civil war for them. But why not? We hate to lose! We want to WIN!!

But what do you want to win? The minds and the hearts of the Iraqi people! But 80% of THEM want us to leave THEIR country and let them get on with their lives. NO! NO! WE WANT TO WIN!!

WE broke it. We are paying the salaries of their army, their police, their militias. They are paying for their arms. We are paying for their silence. They are banking billions. They have a surplus. We are in the hole by TRILLIONS. There are 170,000 US troops, 180,000 mercernary contractors, and 510,000 Iraqi Security Forces - that is OVER three-quarters of a MILLION TROOPS IN IRAQ.

Americans don't like to LOSE!

But what do we want to WIN?

Bill Bradley Raises Questions About More Clinton Skeletons

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:29:09 EDT

I missed this on Wednesday's edition of the News Hour on PBS but Tim Russert replayed it on Sunday's edition of Meet the Press, which I think everyone should watch. It's a great show this week. However, the second great nugget coming out of this show (see my last post) is the comments by Bill Bradley -- someone for whom I think many, many people have very high regard. You can watch the video at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/23547550#23547550

but I've included the relative segment below. It's good reading and it raises a great question that must all consider looking past the primaries.

Gov. Rendell admits: "Obama is qualified"

Chip Roberson in Sonoma, CA — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:10:20 EDT

Some times Tim Russert really comes through with a great one-two punch. On today's edition of Meet the Press, he raised the question of the Clinton/Obama ticket and then turned it on Governor Rendell. You can read the transcript at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23546011/

or watch the video at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/23547550#23547550

but I've included the relative segment below.

Hillary's Scorched Earth Policy

Citizen20854 — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 21:29:24 EST

The evidence is in. Hillary will do whatever it takes to win. In New Hampshire, Emily’s List passed out last minute lies on Obama’s position on choice. In South Carolina, it was Bill’s fault. Falsely accusing Obama today that he plagiarized his speech well that is what I call, Hillary’s fault. This is “scorched earth – win at all cost” campaigning.

Giving the plagiarism accusation a little more thought, if we go by Hillary’s line of reasoning, then all campaign speeches are an act of plagiarism. I don’t believe I have ever heard a politician begin his speech by thanking all the thought contributors in person. Politics, by nature, is a collaborative activity, where input is a part of the design.

The last time a President was elected using scorched earth politics, look who made it to Whitehouse and look at the consequences. Twisting the truth took us down a long and winding road to a Clinton impeachment process that divided our country and strangled progress. This is the past Obama is pushing to leave behind, it is the past that is broken.

Unity and collaboration is the future. Lying campaign strategies are the past.

In the words of Henry Ford,

"Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success."

Obama brought us together, he has kept us together and now we are working together. I haven’t heard about supporters who changed their mind on Obama, but I sure have heard a lot who have changed their mind on Hillary. Now that is the progress and change we are looking for - OBAMA 2008! SI SE PUEDE!!!! ADELANTE USA!

Testimony for Barack Obama

Jenny Nunemacher — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:37:02 EST

After speaking with many fellow Obama supporters in my neck of the woods, I have come to realize that every one of them has come to be a supporter through a singular moment, like an epiphany. It very much reminds me of how Christians come to Jesus and are later asked to give their testimony of that experience. I've created this blog as a forum for my own testimony for Barack.

I don't mean to be sacreligious or to offend any Christians out there, but I think the analogy is a good one.

Here is my testimony.

A Florida and Michigan Caucus!!!

Karen S, Cleveland OH — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:32:06 EST

MI and FL are putting pressure on the DNC to have a "redo", a caucus in late March.

Watch Tim Russert talk about it HERE.

Caucuses favor Obama!!! MI voters, as we know, actually took time out of work to go and vote in a primary that basically didn't count to vote "UNCOMMITTED". WE CAN DO THIS!!!

There should be more info on this soon!

GOOOOOOOOOBAMA!!!

Link to Sunday's (1/20) Meet The press, worth reading/watching

Obama for President — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 13:16:36 EST

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3898804/

Addresses good points about:

- How was Bill Clinton distorting facts about NV Union workers being forced to vote for Obama

- How is Hillary distorting what Obama said about Ronald Reagan's transfrmative ideas, something that Bill Clinton imself said in 2002 and Hillary was quoted in her book and other places praising Ronald Reagan - something the campaign can use to level the criticisam on these issues.

- Opening comment from John Meecham that what will unite Republicans in November - it will be Hillary if she became the nominee

Campaign needs to address some off these issues head on before SC as Clintons and Edward are trying to spin these comments for their benefit.

BTW, great victory in NV with delegates and coming in so close from 25 points behind.

Fired up.

Damn Media

I'm not Political, I'm GRASSROOTS! — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 12:06:15 EST

Where was Barack on Sunday morning TV anyway??

It was hard watching Hillary telling Tim Russert all about our candidate as if she really knows him. What's even more insulting is Tim Russert and his inept way of asking her a question (while knowing the truth) and then allowing her to completely evade answering it, or even worse allowing her to spin it her way.

It is completely unfair that candidates can spew lies about the other without either the other candidate or his supporters be there to defend themselves, at least within the same hour of the interview! It felt like an infomercial, rather than an interview.

This interview was full of lies and deceit, and Tim Russert allowed her to get away with it. I hope the voters were as insulted as I was!!

Obama on "Meet the Press"

YesWeCan Carol — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 07:04:21 EST

December 30th interview with Tim Russert on Meet the Press:

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/video_log/2007/12/obama_on_meet_the_press.html

Any comments?

Close race in Iowa as Obama goes on Meet the Press

Benjamin Vos, Nashville — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 11:37:19 EST

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/10005061#10005061

Let's discuss Obama's appearance this a.m. on Meet the Press. Obama appears at about 30 minutes into this program. Open discussion.

SUGGESTION FOR BARACK OF TOMORROWS DEBATE

'Wale — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:16:11 EST

Already Senator Clintons surrogates have come out to start attacking Barack for an answer he gave on "Meet The Press" last Sunday: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/11/14/466224.aspx

On Sunday, Tim "Timmeh" Russert never read the full answer Barack gave in a previous interview they had in 2004 at the Democratic Convention, but instead used an incomplete quote to try and stump Barack with his question. Barack inturn (through no fault of his) gave what might be a mis-construed answer.

I have a feeling that Hillary Clinton will try to bring this up in the debate tomorrow night and I want Barack to be ready for it. Personally I would put the entire answer he gave Tim Russert (back in 2004) on an mini-audiotape player and play it live when Hillary brings it up. This was his answer and I quote:

'But, I'm not privy to Senate intelligence reports,' Mr. Obama said. 'What would I have done? I don't know. What I know is that from my vantage point the case was not made.' But Mr. Obama said he did fault Democratic leaders for failing to ask enough tough questions of the Bush administration to force it to prove its case for war. 'What I don't think was appropriate was the degree to which Congress gave the president a pass on this,'

So as you can see, although Barack was obviously protecting John Kerry and Edwards as best he could, he still stressed that he felt the case for War had not been made, and still critisized congress for giving Bush a free pass by authorizing the war.

SOMEONE PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO BARACK!

Sit Up Straight!!

I'm not Political, I'm GRASSROOTS! — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 11:47:15 EST

Somebody needs to tell Barack he needs to NOT cock his head so much while being interviewed!! It looks like an invisible person is sitting on his shoulder.

Just an observation...it's very distracting.