Who is Tim Russert?
Timothy John Russert has been called an institution, an icon in American political journalism who was beloved and respected by colleagues, friends and even some adversaries. Born 7 May 1950 in Buffalo, New York, Tim Russert made his name and reputation as the long time moderator of the political interest show, Meet the Press on NBC. He also served as the Washington Bureau Chief at NBC. His influence in the world of politics and how they are covered by journalists earned him a spot in 2008 on the 100 Most Influential People in the World list published by Time magazine. Tim Russert was very vocal in his appreciation for the opportunity to attend Catholic schools, provided by the hard work of his father, Timothy Joseph Russert, lovingly nicknamed, “Big Russ.” After graduating from Canisius High School, Russert attended John Carroll University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in 1972. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor in 1976 from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. Russert began his care
I made a list of who he is not. I hate going through other people’s lists so I’ll not go there myself. The point is that after listing a whole bunch of characteristics and motivations that do not apply to Mr. Russert the only thing I could conclude is that I have no idea what accounts for Mr. Russert’s ignoble behavior. Maybe I am guilty of missing the context though. That is why I phrased this article’s title as a question. How is it that a 47 year old self-described political junkie has no idea who Tim Russert is? It really isn’t a great mystery to me. Until today he hadn’t yet interviewed anyone I was interested enough in to make a point of viewing. I’m a contrarian political junkie. I don’t believe television shows are a vital or interesting part of the political process. Granted, some may be important, but I’d like to see that importance diminished to nil over time. They are driven by too many powerful influences from outside the domain of politics. The result is of indeterminate
I hope this message gets to Maureen and Luke. I am just an ordinary citizen but I would like to share a few thoughs about Tim Russert.Tim had integrity, he was honest, he cared for others and he always listened. He did ask hard questions but that was Tim. I loved seeing him get the chalk board as he did on this election and write down numbers. He knew his business. He always knew everything he needed to know when he would interview anyone. He always did his homework. As the boyscouts motto (I think, be prepared). He always was ready to answer the questions people asked him. I just want you to know that I admired your husband and your father. He indeed was a patriot who loved his country, his church, and most of all “His family”. Bless you as you go through these next days, weeks, months and years. Always remember all the good times. He had a wonderful heart-warming smile. Blessings, Linda Howell, Hernando, MS 38632.
