A Tribute to Tim Russert and .. Current "Meet the Press" Events

Tim Russert, Irish as the daisies that bloom on the Cliffs of Moher and one of America's leading political journalists, died at 58 on Friday, June 13, 2008. I'm not sure whether Tim was superstitious, but perhaps he was, many Irish are.

Russert was the host of NBC's "Meet the Press" since 1991.

Politics: It was one subject that seemed significantly larger than what my brain could handle. I began watching Tim Russert. His explanations, poignant and direct questioning and humor was riddled with love, understanding, respect and care for people. Mr. Russert made me a smarter and wiser person. I will truly miss him.

This is a tribute to Tim Russert.

TIM RUSSERT - DEAD AT 58

When I heard this news coming back from Busch Gardens today in Williamsburg, Virginia, I had to read it three times, because I couldn't believe Tim Russert was dead, at only the age of 58! I thought...

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CNN-The World in Shock

Moderator of Meet the Press

Tim Russert, NBC News' Washington bureau chief and the moderator of "Meet the Press," died Friday after suffering a heart attack at the bureau. He was 58.

Russert was recording voiceovers for Sunday's "Meet the Press" broadcast when he collapsed. He was rushed to Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, where resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

Russert's physician, Michael Newman, said cholesterol plaque ruptured in an artery, causing sudden coronary thrombosis.

Russert had earlier been diagnosed with asymptomatic coronary artery disease, but it was well-controlled with medication and exercise, and he had performed well on a stress test in late April, Newman said. An autopsy revealed that he also had an enlarged heart, Newman said.

Russert's death left his colleagues devastated.

He was "one of the premier political journalists and analysts of his time," Tom Brokaw, the former longtime anchor of "NBC Nightly News," said in announcing Russert's death Friday afternoon. Brian Williams, managing editor and anchor of "NBC Nightly News," called his death a "staggering, overpowering and sudden loss."

"Meet the Press," which he began hosting in 1991, was considered an essential proving ground in the career of any national politician.

See what people who have met Tim have to say

I met Tim as he arrived for a presentation at the St. Louis Speaker Series at Powell Hall on October 4, 2004. I had a copy of his book, Big Russ and Me, on compact disk, for him to sign. He seemed...

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Meeting Tim in St. Louis

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I met Tim Russert on Sunday, March 16 on the set of Meet The Press, along with a group of 100 journalism scholars part of the Al Neuharth Free Spirit Conference in Washington, DC. We viewed a live...

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Meeting Tim in Washington

Tim Russert died Friday afternoon of a heart attack while in the newsroom at NBC headquarters in Washington, DC. He died doing the thing he loved the most- readying himself for another edition of Sunday morning's Meet the Press.

This is an interesting interview which covers the introduction of Tim Russert to Meet The Press.

It is the last of a Nine-part oral history interview with Producer Betty Cole Dukert, where she speaks of her early production experience in local radio and television. She speaks in detail about her tenure at Meet the Press, which spanned five decades, for which she ultimately served as executive producer. Dukert offered a history of the show from its earliest years as well as discussing her personal experiences behind-the-scenes. She chronicles her overseas trips, guests who appeared on the show, and the relationship between the series and the world's political leaders. Additionally, she describes the the moderators who served on the show during her years including: Ned Brooks, Lawrence Spivak, Bill Monroe, Marvin Kalb, Roger Mudd, Chris Wallace, Garrick Utley, and Tim Russert.

I've had so many Tim Russert fans asking me to post an IMUS series that I am finally doing just that. Hold on to your "Imus cowboy hat." Here we go.

I was not a fan of Imus. I think that he prescribed to shock culture. He did however, give Tim Russert an opportunity to vent. That was good.

Imus has since been fired from the radio program 'Imus In The Morning' for inappropriate comments.

He followed the rules, worked hard, and made what was old new again.

This is a video record of Tim Russert's wake, with background music added. The service was held at St. Albans School in Washington D.C. on June 17, 2008. The music is Bruce Springsteen, Tim's favorite, and the selection is Jungleland from the Born To Run album. This footage is towards the end of the wake with the last of the thousands of friends that attended, paying their respects. The footage concludes with Luke Russert, Tim's son, greeting friends next to his father's casket, and then a few classic photos of Tim, those he most loved, and those he was most loved by.

Springsteen dedicated "Jungle Land" to Tim last night from his European tour and Tim was his #1 fan, so I believe he would like his song, 'You're Missing' to play on this perfect tribute.

Matt Lauer Of "TODAY" recorded Luke Russert's first appearance since his dad {TIM RUSSERT} passed away , Luke shared unforgettable memories of his dad with us.

Mother/Widow/Author

Ms.Orth has led a fascinating life. In addition to being the beloved wife of the late Tim Russert, she has been a Peace Corp volunteer, visiting the closed and jinxed set of "Apocalypse Now", Maureen has seen the celebrity machine from the inside as a writer for Vanity Fair magazine.

Ms.Orth gets right to the point no sugar coating going on here, she give it to you straight with no chaser. The truth is finally told.

I loved the phrase coined by Ms.Orth, " The Celebrity-Industrial Complex. " Note that media news are now 24/7, talking heads proliferate on TV and the quickest way of getting your leg broken is to get between a camera and Gloria Allred.

This author is as fascinating as the books and articles she writes! Do make a point of seeing her if she comes to your city. She is smart, a critical thinker, and possesses a clear moral sense.

Although Ms.Orth has interviewed many celebrities who have done absurd and even reprehensible things, she never panders, and she tells her stories with a grounding sense of balance.

Photograph by Mark Schafer

Orth seems to focus best on women, and on the intricate web of fame in which they find themselves occasionally strung.

Orth's dramatic recollection of speaking to Margaret Thatcher just after she was deposed (not too strong of a word) from 10 Downing Street is a marvel. She also includes a lovely memoir of Dame Margot Fonteyn, who had grown weary of hotel rooms, and found unexpected pleasure in near-spartan living after a lifetime of luxury.

If you enjoy reading Vanity Fair you'll love this behind-the-stories look.

June 18,2008 - Luke Russert: "My dad was a force of nature." Luke read excerpts from the eulogy he gave for his father, TIM RUSSERT.

Here's to Tim Russert and to the great legacy of love, and honor carried on by his son Luke. What a strong young man to have given this speech so soon after his father's passing. It must have been so difficult.

and A SHORT SUMMARY

My Guess .... TOM BROKAW (And I was right .. at least temporarily he did.)

Short Summary

It has been said of Tim:

~ Giant in journalism

~ None better.

~ One of the really good guys.

~ Had a rolicking sense of humor.

~ Tim the Irish guy will truly be missed.

How did Tim Russert go from painting lines on the streets of Buffalo to head of the NBC News Washington Bureau?

Tim advised:

"Work hard and take advantage of opportunities when offered to you."

Meet The Press has always one of the first programs I turn to when I want to take the pulse on some current happenings. Will I continue to turn here now that neither Tim Russert nor Tom Brokow hold the reins and it looks like David Gregory is now the new man in the shute?

Let us now sing the praises of Tom Brokaw celebrating the masterful job he has done not just of moderating Meet the Press, but also leading the network news division through a time of crisis since the unexpected death of Tim Russert in June.

When TV goes into overdrive the way it did in the wake of Russert's death, reporters and anchors often take on symbolic roles. And so it was with Brokaw, the retired NBC anchorman, assuming the role as head of mourning for the NBC News family.

Brokaw was the first on the air in the immediate aftermath of Russert's death, and he forged the template for virtually all that followed, describing his colleague as "the true child of blue-collar Buffalo - who was always in touch with that ethos. ... Tim loved his family, his faith, his country and politics."

Brokaw set the stage again at a moving memorial service, opening and closing the event, and often embracing other speakers as they returned from the podium. He gave the proceedings grace, stature and a heart.

And what a job he did as host of Meet the Press. In terms of ratings, Brokaw actually drew a larger audience than Russert in leading the show to a 28 percent margin of victory over its nearest Sunday morning competition, ABC's, 'This Week.' And Brokaw made news of his own on the show, with such interviews as that of former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Brokaw was expected to hand off the baton on Sunday's telecast, which featured an interview with President-elect Barack Obama that all but guarantees the interim host will leave on a high note. (According to AP, the succession is not yet set. While Gregory is negotiating with the network to take the helm of Meet the Press, a contract has not yet been signed.)

Even in this era of snarky media commentary, Brokaw's performance is one thing we should be able to celebrate without qualification. We can also give some praise to NBC management for having handled Brokaw's retirement in such a way that the network has an honored anchorman emeritus. And give some kudos to current anchorman Brian Williams for graciously deferring to the man who he replaced at the NBC News anchor desk.

Tom Brokaw has been a class act, and a winner.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I can identify with many of his experiences.

Like him, I came from a small town that is often ridiculed by those from more urbanized areas

Like him, I was fortunate enough to be born to wonderful parents who instilled the right values.

Like him, I don't really want to move back to where I came from, but I am eternally grateful for it and love to visit.

Brokaw is a thoroughly appealing character in this book. That his ego was showing through in some places is true, but it's not the sort of display that irritates you - more like the sort where you shake your head and are more than a little charmed. He doesn't spare himself in his account.

I've always had a weakness for tales told by people who are out of the limelight, who aren't the immediate images called up when you think of a particular era, who weren't in what some would consider the "mainstream". Tom Brokaw's South Dakota upbringing is just as integral a part of America in the '40's and '50's as that of someone not living in "fly-over" territory. He brings it to life in an engaging way.

Have you read "The Greatest Generation", his landmark bestseller? Tom Brokaw eloquently evoked for America what it meant to come of age during the Great Depression and the Second World War.

Well, we're all aware now of the appointment of David Gregory as new moderator for "Meet The Press." What is our friend Tom Brokaw going to do now. Well, he does write a great book!

Brokaw has given us another, 'looks-like-a-winner' in "Boom!".

Boom! One minute it was Ike and the man in the grey flannel suit, and the next minute it was time to "turn on, tune in, drop out." While Americans were walking on the moon, Americans were dying in Vietnam. Nothing was beyond question, and there were far fewer answers than before.

Race, war, politics, feminism, popular culture, and music are all explored here, and we learn from a wide range of people about their lives. Tom Brokaw explores how members of this generation have gone on to bring activism and a Sixties mindset into individual entrepreneurship today. We hear stories of how this formative decade has led to a re-calibrated perspective on business, the environment, politics, family, and our national existence.

As a member of the 60s generation, I couldn't put this book down especially as as I fully agreed with most points made by Brokaw.

For political junkies, it was like seeing white smoke at the Vatican: Everyone from the New York Times to the Huffington Post reported that NBC finally found a new journalist to replace Tim Russert as host of its venerated Sunday political show, Meet the Press - chief White House correspondent David Gregory.

I think NBC has made a great choice with David Gregory. He has shown his versatility as a White House Correspondent, panelist on Meet the Press, fill in host on Today and host of the recent election coverage. MSNBC did a much better job than big brother NBC.

David Gregory's debut as moderator for NBC's "Meet the Press" gave the Sunday morning news show a ratings win Dec. 14 among total viewers and in several demographics, according to Nielsen Media Research.

NBC's win marks its 377th for the week out of the last 379 when everyone is at full coverage.

Congatulations David, looking forward to many more years of great programing with you at the helm.

Here is a suggestion for the new host of Meet The Press.

Loosen up and reveal yourself. A few things audiences learned about Gregory from his numerous stints guest-hosting the Today show: He's got a great sense of humor, taste for pop culture and even a few quality dance moves. Nobody's suggesting he turn Meet the Press into Solid Gold here's hoping Gregory will make the show relatable and compelling while maintaining its credibility and seriousness of purpose. Russert always found time to shout out to his beloved Buffalo Bills and dad Big Russ; surely Gregory can add a little of his own spice to Meet the Press' august political mix.

I was right when I predicted that Tom Brokaw would take over the reins of Meet The Press right after Tim Russert died. However, I didn't know who would take over from him. David Gregory comes to his post at an opportune moment. After an engaging presidential campaign, the whole nation remains fired up about politics, a Congress stands ready to change all the rules, and the economy has gone MIA. All we need is a new war some place in the world and the table would be completely set.

I predict that Gregory won't shake up the show right away. He'll both avoid impersonating Tim Russert, lest anyone make unfavorable comparisons, and lull the loyal 'Meet the Press' audience back into its comfort zone. After getting them there, he should begin remaking the show.

First step:

Get rid of the Russert regulars

Who hasn't heard enough from James Carville and Mary Matalin by now? Hasn't plagiarist Doris Kearns Goodwin run out of gas? Doesn't William Safire phone it in? Can't NBC do the right thing and give Andrea Mitchell her own show? And why does the mere sight of David Broder, Bob Shrum, E.J. Dionne, or Peggy Noonan on television make me want to barf?

Recruiting a younger band of participants would mark the passing of an era and acknowledge the arrival of a young president. It's not even a very radical step. Russert was known to experiment with formula, adding Matt Drudge and Rush Limbaugh to the mix. So it's not too much to ask some new voices to suit up for play. The office politics of such a move will be tricky. Betsy Fischer, Russert's executive producer, is Gregory's executive producer. It would be a pity if she insisted on turning the show into a permanent memorial service for her old boss.

~Add Jeff Zeleny of the New York Times, who had a great run covering the Obama campaign.

~Nobody knows more about the next president and is more resistant to his charms than Lynn Sweet of the Chicago Sun-Times.

~Helene Cooper, who just moved over to the New York Times' White House beat, is a fine reporter.

~As resident progressive egghead, sign up Thomas Frank, who now writes a weekly column for the Wall Street Journal.

~Add George Mason University economic professor and Tyler Cowen, a regular New York Times contributor, as counterweight.

~Add Terence Samuel, deputy editor of The Root, who writes for the American Prospect. Samuel commands an original, wicked mind.

Next step:

Invent a great gimmick

Russert had a dozen gimmicks. He had the flip-flop graphic. He had Buffalo. The Bills. His blue collar. The whiteboard. His dad. Gregory needs a similar signature, and I've got just the thing. Good politicians are evasion artists, able to field a difficult question without answering it and making it sound as though they did. When confronted with such maneuvers, Gregory could pursue his prey with three follow-up questions. If the politician didn't answer satisfactorily, Gregory could give his best grin and say, "Senator, that's three and you're out" and move on to the next question. If deployed artfully, "That's three and you're out" could become the most feared phrase in political reporting and just maybe it could get politicians to respond truthfully.

After that:

Add a reported news story

Instead of relying on guests for news, a Sunday show could break the mold by filing a reported story that makes news or at least broadcast a reported segment that put into context the top story that everybody is about to discuss.

Finally:

Get out of the office and stay out of the office

As Washington bureau chief for NBC News, Russert could sponge up details and tips from his reporters and walk the political beat all week in preparation for his show. If he runs the show more like a reporter and less like a Washington institution ... he'll make 'Meet The Press' an even better show!

Well, Gregory started out with great shows. Lively and with great interesting guests. Let's watch as the show continues. I'll be putting clips and videos up for you to view. Then after a while I'll give you a chance to express your opinion of the moderator and his show.

With David Gregory as Host

David Axelrod

Meet The Press, Getty Images

In this television screen grab taken from NBC, David Axelrod, a senior adviser to President-elect Barack Obama, speaks on remote interview during a live taping of Meet the Press at NBC's studios December 28, 2008 in Washington, DC. David Axelrod, a senior adviser to President-elect Obama, Rich Lowry, editor of the National Review, Todd Purdum, national editor of Vanity Fair, Michelle Singletary, financial columnist at the Washington Post, and Richard Wolffe, senior White House correspondent for Newsweek, appeared on the program.

Axelrod: Obama to engage in diplomacy right away

~A top aide to President-elect Barack Obama says the new administration plans to act quickly and engage in diplomacy around the world.

David Axelrod, top aide to President-elect Barack Obama, says the new administration plans to act quickly and engage in diplomacy around the world.

Axelrod said Sunday that everyone is hopeful that the cease-fire in the Middle East lasts.

He said the events around the world demand that Obama act quickly, and the American people will see that as he takes office. Appearing on CNN's State of the Union, Axelrod did not provide details for what Obama plans to do about the Middle East.

Tony Snow Apologizes To David Gregory

David Gregory, as the moderator of "Meet the Press," is batting the ball right out of the park.

"Meet the Press with David Gregory" was the top-rated Sunday morning public affairs hour for November 11, 2012, according to Nielsen Media Research data attracting 3.313 million viewers, leading "This Week" by +352,000, the "Face the Nation" hour by +951,000, and "FOX News" by +2,094,000.

According to Nielsen Media Research data .. November 25, 2012 "Meet the Press" attracted 2.836 million viewers, leading "This Week" by +446,000, the "Face the Nation" hour by 709,000, and "FOX News" by 1,522,000.

WOW!

This Sunday: Washington's big question after the election is whether the country - in just 22 days - will fall over the fiscal cliff, sending the economy into another recession.

David's reporting indicates a deal may be closer than some think. Find out why when he leads a debate between top lieutenant to House Speaker Boehner, California congressman, Kevin McCarthy and Assistant Majority Leader of the Senate Dick Durbin.

Meet the Press round table analyzed the current economic climate and it's role in the "Fiscal Cliff" negotiations.

The Fiscal Cliff

- Bush tax rate expires?

- Emergency unemployment benefits end?

- 2011 payroll tax holiday expires?

- Alternative minimum tax kicks in?

- $984. billion in defense and non-defense cuts are received?

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