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Goodbye to a Standup Brother
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Posted By:
Wendlyn67 at 08/26/2008 9:15:35 AM
Comment:
There is one person who can pick up where TR left off, and you just read an essay by her. I hope that NBC realizes this and we see Ms. Ifill permanently seated in that new MTP chair. -
Posted By:
jjjmac2003 at 08/09/2008 6:03:20 AM
Comment:
It'll be a long, long time before there is anyone close to being another Tim Russert. Sunday mornings will never be the same again. -
Posted By:
senrab1030 at 06/24/2008 11:38:20 PM
Comment:
I respected Tim and when he spoke I likened him to E F Hutton "when he spoke everyone listened" I thought he was open minded. He'll be missed, I don't think his shoes can be filled immediately. -
Posted By:
sheldonmaycock at 06/24/2008 11:58:25 AM
Comment:
Ms. Ifill I thank you for your comments on Tim Russert. It is clear that dispite the need of so-called tevevision and print media journalist, both you and Tim have maintained a level of trueness and thoughtfullness about your work so that those of us who want real information to move our thoughts forward can count on you two. The market driven media business has popular so-called journalist becomming shock jocks using negative , provocative methods combined with a mixture of half-truths and rumor just to grab the public's attention instead of really providing usefull information and reasonable opinion. This holds true for your audience inside and outside the U.S.A. So thank you madam and your fellow pro, the late great Mr. Russert.
Sheldon Maycock
Nassau, Bahamas -
Posted By:
david610 at 06/23/2008 12:24:03 PM
Comment:
Gwen Ifill calling Tim Russett a "Standup Brother" reminds me of how many black people treated Bill Clinton as a "brother". But as soon as Ole Bill though a black person got out of line, Obama running for president, Bill turned white real quick to put you back in line. I remember a debate with Hilary and Obama and Tim Russett confronted Obama demanding repudiation of Louis Farrakhan. This went on for what seem like a forever. Calling him the WORST KIND OF HATRED IN AMERICA. Now this coming from the same man Tim Russett who allowed racist Pat Buchanan on TV daily and was close personal friends with Don Imus. Farrakhan is not in the same league as many white conservatives (bigots) that Tim Russett allowed on MSNBC. No black person has ever been in a position of power in this country to be called the WORST KIND OF HATRED IN AMERICA. With all due respect to Gwen Ifill and others praising Tim, he would have NEVER allowed a black person with that type of racist point of view like Imus or Buchanan to be allowed on the air. I too remember the Meet the Press episode about Imus. One thing Gwen is leaving out is when Tim looked her in the eyes after Gwen told her sad story how Imus degraded her, Tim looked her in the eyes and stated to the effect, Imus was my friend before this and he's going to stay my friend after this and went on to talk about how he and his wife have them other to dinner weekly etc. If the situation were reversed would Tim have even offered Gwen to work at NBC if she had a close friendship with a high profile bigoted black person. I doubt it. Black people have a tendency to over praise white people who are willing to show a fraction of respect to them or to show them a fraction of opportunaties they show to undeserving racist whites. Gwen and others are entitled to there point of view and to those who will disagree with me, so do I. -
Posted By:
david610 at 06/23/2008 12:23:25 PM
Comment:
Gwen Ifill calling Tim Russett a"Standup Brother" reminds me of how many black people treated Bill Clinton as a "brother". But as soon as Ole Bill though a black person got out of line, Obama running for president, Bill turned white real quick to put you back in line. I remember a debate with Hilary and Obama and Tim Russett confronted Obama demanding repudiation of Louis Farrakhan. This went on for what seem like a forever. Calling him the WORST KIND OF HATRED IN AMERICA. Now this coming from the same man Tim Russett who allowed racist Pat Buchanan on TV daily and was close personal friends with Don Imus. Farrakhan is not in the same league as many white conservatives (bigots) that Tim Russett allowed on MSNBC. No black person has ever been in a position of power in this country to be called the WORST KIND OF HATRED IN AMERICA. With all due respect to Gwen Ifill and others praising Tim, he would have NEVER allowed a black person with that type of racist point of view like Imus or Buchanan to be allowed on the air. I too remember the Meet the Press episode about Imus. One thing Gwen is leaving out is when Tim looked her in the eyes after Gwen told her sad story how Imus degraded her, Tim looked her in the eyes and stated to the effect, Imus was my friend before this and he's going to stay my friend after this and went on to talk about how he and his wife have them other to dinner weekly etc. If the situation were reversed would Tim have even offered Gwen to work at NBC if she had a close friendship with a high profile bigoted black person. I doubt it. Black people have a tendency to over praise white people who are willing to show a fraction of respect to them or to show them a fraction of opportunaties they show to undeserving racist whites. Gwen and others are entitled to there point of view and to those who will disagree with me, so do I. -
Posted By:
DrewReason at 06/20/2008 3:17:39 PM
Comment:
I am not sure where people (some people) are going with this idea or complaint that Russert doomed Obama.
His colleagues agreed that he sunk Hillary's campaign after the driver's license for ilegals/undocumented workers questioning. -
Posted By:
Anna Mae at 06/20/2008 2:10:47 PM
Comment:
Gwen Ifill has written a rare, insider's view of a wonderful man. I knew Tim and he was one of a kind. A rare, humane, gifted guy who shared those gifts with us. -
Posted By:
jjjmac2003 at 06/20/2008 7:14:32 AM
Comment:
We have witnessed the end of an era. 'Meet the Press' will never be the same, Sunday, the entire day will never be the same for that matter without Tim Russert. Something not everyone knows is that Tim had received 29 honorary degrees during his career ! The most I have ever heard of for anyone in any field.
Tim Russert did more than keep me informed. Tim Russert helped me to be a better voter which means he helped me to be a better American ! -
Posted By:
jjjmac2003 at 06/20/2008 7:08:38 AM
Comment:
We have witnessed the end of an era. 'Meet the Press' will never be the same, Sunday, the entire day will never be the same for that matter without Tim Russert. Something not everyone knows is that Tim had received 29 honorary degrees during his career ! The most I have ever heard of for anyone in any field.
Tim Russert did more than keep me informed. Tim Russert helped me to be a better voter which means he helped me to be a better American ! -
Posted By:
olamina at 06/20/2008 2:51:39 AM
Comment:
Dear Ms.Ifill,
Thanks for this! I adored Tim and watching MTP religiously every week and I especially adored it when you were there. I am still shocked by his sudden death. The show will never be the same. Those were special times and you should be fiercely proud to have made it all so special. I thank you both for being such an influence to young journalists like me. -
Posted By:
olamina at 06/20/2008 2:50:31 AM
Comment:
Dear Ms.Ifill,
Thanks for this! I adored Tim and MTP and I especially adored it when you were there. I am shocked by his sudden death. The show will never be the same. Those were special times and you should be fiercely proud to have made it all so special. I thank you both for being such an influence to young journalists like me. -
Posted By:
satchmo at 06/19/2008 10:24:17 PM
Comment:
your comments are on point..i vivdly remember the day you were on during the Imus humbug.and your view was on point.I like imus he wenr over the line and a credit to you and tim your view got aired kudos to you for being a FRIEND to a FRIEND -
Posted By:
ebonyman100200 at 06/19/2008 9:26:54 PM
Comment:
Tim Russert was an everyday kind of person, meaning he was how we say "really down". Your writing portrays this very accurately. -
Posted By:
Americantothecore at 06/19/2008 8:44:30 PM
Comment:
It became obvious, while watching and listening to the tributes to Tim Russert, that virtually all the journalists and correspondents I admire most, who are working today, Gwen Ifill included, were either hired by, promoted by, pushed to higher goals or prodded by Tim Russert. He seemed to have an unfailing instinct for the fair-minded. In this regard, he represented not just the best of journalists, but the best of humanity because he lived his principles. In so doing, he pushed the rest of us to do the same. He really, truly represented the best of America: the decent, honest, fair, open-minded people of this country. We hear far too much of the others, because they make noise, and, thus, the news. But most of us are not like that, at least we try not to be, and when shown the errors of our ways, we try to make things better. That's what Russert did. If he didn't have the answers, he didn't pretend to--he asked those who did have the answers. That way, we can all share.
I'm old enough to remember the JFK assassination. It was horrible; it tore the gut out of this country to watch his widow and children. Then to be followed by the assassinations of RFK and MLK, Jr., was almost more than one could stand. I feel just the same about the passing of Tim Russert. We've lost someone very special; the way to honor him, and what he stood for, is to be open, fairminded, to listen to others and not judge before we have heard the facts; then "go get 'em."
RIP indeed. Condolences, too, to Gwen, who has lost a friend, mentor and brother. There's no higher tribute one human being can give another. -
Posted By:
disco at 06/19/2008 7:53:14 PM
Comment:
yea, Tim had a very good nature about himself. The lord has a place for us all and will come a callin eventually. RIP -
Posted By:
rae.rae911 at 06/19/2008 7:05:21 PM
Comment:
I loved coming home from work and turning on MSNBC and seeing what Tim had to say about the campaigns and what was going on in politics. He was also so happy and so neutral and so interested in listening to what others had to say My husband and I were just watching him that Wednesday or that Thursday on MSNBC. When I got in on Friday from work my husband told me that Tim had passed away. I was in shock, I said "Honey we were just watching him yesterday." I couldn't believe it. This weekend I stayed in and watched the MSNBC coverage of Remembering Tim. I cried and laughed at some of the stories I heard about him and I felt like I knew him and his son Luke personally. The one thing I noticed is that not one person had anything to say about him that wasn't wonderful. It is rare when you find a person like that. I cried my heart out when I saw the Meet The Press show on Sunday with Tom Brokaw and in the background Tim's charir was empty. I cried even harder when I saw the picture where the lights were out and Tim's son came on the floor and touched his father's chair. It broke my heart and I could only imagine the pain he was feeling. God bless Luke and Big Russ and Tim's wife. They are in my prayers.
Desiree -
Posted By:
kj06 at 06/19/2008 6:08:14 PM
Comment:
This is an exceptional article on a man that I never knew, but felt like I had known all my life. He was a great person, and I am sad that the world is without someone so honest, trustworthy, and an all around great person. My only prayer, besides the one I say for his family and friends, is that God has another "Tim like" person out there who can do an equally good job and fill what would be impossible to fill shoes. -
Posted By:
LisaC5224 at 06/19/2008 3:38:37 PM
Comment:
Thank you Gwen. You confirmed what I have known for years-that Tim really was a cool dude. I will never get over him not being here. Who is going to write on the erase board now??? I don't know anyone who will not miss him, black or white. He was so passionate about what he did, and I personally learned a lot from him. -
Posted By:
ndubisi at 06/19/2008 1:41:47 PM
Comment:
It is the little things that matter, isn't! The lessons to draw from this heart warming story are many and invaluable. Permit me to point to one of the lessons which is, that hopefully the exploited does not become the exploiter. Let's get out there and do to others all the good we desire from others. Afterall, that's the "golden rule". Tim has influenced us all because he did just that. -
Posted By:
jifcil at 06/19/2008 12:51:21 PM
Comment:
Tim will be missed by as many black folks as white folks. He was special and will be missed very much. He would have been the best man to navigate us americans and the rest of the world through this important juncture inthe history of the United States. Ira -
Posted By:
runde at 06/19/2008 12:04:52 PM
Comment:
Gwen Ifill I thank you for your reflections about Tim Russert and your relationship with him. I have always sensed many of the things you have mention about Tim's character although I have never met him. I actually cried when I heard about his passing. He raised the bar for this years election coverage and I will always appreciate him for that because I feel the current issues are so important - not just the current histories developing. Tim's reporting was balanced and unbiased. Many times I have been drawn to a different point of view because of Tim Russert. I will really miss him. I am so sorry that his family has lost him and that you have lost your friend.
Runde -
Posted By:
Vango at 06/19/2008 11:55:52 AM
Comment:
Great article!
I'm glad he was such a good friend to you. His ability to face and deal with 'uncomfortable' issues even if they show him or Caucasians up is rare. I would of loved to engaged in a few debates with him myself. -
Posted By:
Vango at 06/19/2008 11:50:09 AM
Comment:
Great article.
If he was as you say, then he was indeed rare; and race did not matter.
I'm glad he was your friend.
vg -
Posted By:
wmaw at 06/19/2008 10:07:02 AM
Comment:
Gwen, Thank you for stating so clearly the emotions a lot of us African Americans feel and felt about our beloved Tim Russert! I truly hope others are listening. -
Posted By:
binta at 06/19/2008 9:11:37 AM
Comment:
Very well written. I do not keep up with "Meet the "Press", but many people I know have only good/positive things to say about 'the brother'. He will be missed. -
Posted By:
binta at 06/19/2008 9:09:50 AM
Comment:
Very well written...I did not always keep up with "Meet the Press", but many people I respect have said nothing but positive things about him. He will be missed. -
Posted By:
AncientPaths at 06/19/2008 9:05:32 AM
Comment:
When I saw Gwen Ifill's name on the byline, I knew I had to read this article. She is the best of the best, and her words regarding Tim Russert ring very, very true. I appreciated Tim Russert for his ability to get to both sides of an issue in an honest way, and I don't know that any other "talking head" is doing that. My condolences to his family. I am very glad that Ms. Ifill is still doing her thing on PBS, I tune in every Friday evening for Washington Week; and I tune in every evening to the PBS news station for its level-headed news commentary. Thank you, Ms. Ifill, for your insightful commentary and continuing presence in the news. -
Posted By:
spider991 at 06/19/2008 8:34:52 AM
Comment:
Miss Ifill is as always.....One smart Black Woman, I was raised in a home with Four strong Black Women, My Gran,My Mom and two sisters. I was the only male and yes as my wife likes to say Spoiled beyond all spoiled. But it made me seek out a strong Black Woman and she has been my Mate and Friend for 32 years...Given me two fine strong Sons...Thank Yopu Miss Ifill for being a strong Black Woman saying it like it is.... -
Posted By:
tljackson224 at 06/19/2008 8:21:56 AM
Comment:
I am so envious! I only wish that when my time comes, people praise the efforts of my existence in the same manner as Timothy J. Russert. I enjoyed watching MTP and hearing his commentary on issues relating to the political landscape.
It seems Mr. Russert assumed the role of custodian of the media's responsibility to the citizens. When peers describe one's impact on their industry in the manner of Russert, that coupled with the reaction of his passing by the general public, he obviously had it right.
I think the thing that set him apart from other journalist is that he apparently wanted to present all aspects of a discussion in an honest, unbiased forum by those whom were for or against whatever the particular topic was that day.
He reported for the people more so than for NBC. NBC was the benefactor of his foresight.
How many guardians of the public's trust are there in the media. When most broadcasts are reaching for sensationalism, MTP sought reality and how decisions affect the common man.
Hat's off to Mr. Russert, 'He did good." -
Posted By:
lheard at 06/19/2008 8:17:58 AM
Comment:
I respected Tim's work and ethics, he truly was a "standup brother'. I am a 69 year old black woman. I will miss his policial knowledge , and overall savvy and how he utilized it on Meet the Press.
L, Heard, Detroit, Mi. -
Posted By:
politcojunkie at 06/19/2008 7:49:37 AM
Comment:
I too am a politico junkie, it is my sport, and like in sports we all have favorite teams and coaches.. Tim's NBC team was mine. and what a grand coach was he. I always found him asking the questions that i would ask and not letting anyone off with a practiced or canned response. The one thing that i couldn't understand is why such a quality person could allow the likes of Pat Buccan corrupt such a thoughtfully chosen team of professionals. How could Tim let this guy week after week have a floor to exspouse his bigoted ideas during this historic political season. It was so bad one day that both Chris and Andrea were almost speechless. But after reading your article i kinda understand that he was bringing all voices to the table so that in this important time in our country's history that all points of view are brought out of the shadows and into the light to be examined. With your article and this new perspective I respect him even more. politcojunkie -
Posted By:
Peace-to-all at 06/19/2008 7:37:49 AM
Comment:
I too was a huge fan of Tim Russert! Your article was a lovely goodbye to a friend. Any questions that some may think were to hard on Obama and others...well I feel Tim knew "what does not kill you only makes you stronger".
May we all be so lucky to have a friend like you! -
Posted By:
roadysf at 06/18/2008 11:52:10 PM
Comment:
Amazing - just when I thought that Gwen Ifill could never top her earlier work, she does again. While I'll miss Tim Russert, I am so blessed that Ifill is still with us. -
Posted By:
dj at 06/18/2008 11:17:41 PM
Comment:
Wow, have been reading some of these comments. Racism is alive and well, isn't it? Too bad 'the brothas and sistah's' can't appreciate this beautiful article by Ifilll without piercing hate. It's her form of a eulogy to her dear friend. Leave it that, will ya????!!!! -
Posted By:
dj at 06/18/2008 11:12:50 PM
Comment:
DownHome, what's your point? I read the articles; what of it?
I am a huge supporter of Obama, but that is not the issue here. The issue is Russert's funeral and Ifill's gratitude for a friend lost. I'm sure many in politics can point to such an article where Russert got 'into it' with them. So what? That was his job, and he did it well.
Get over yourself, and find a more appropriate place to post these articles. -
Posted By:
dj at 06/18/2008 11:12:05 PM
Comment:
DownHome at 06, what's your point? I read the articles; what of it?
I am a huge supporter of Obama, but that is not the issue here. The issue is Russert's funeral and Ifill's gratitude for a friend lost. I'm sure many in politics can point to such an article where Russert got 'into it' with them. So what? That was his job, and he did it well.
Get over yourself, and find a more appropriate place to post these articles. -
Posted By:
SB1 at 06/18/2008 10:24:58 PM
Comment:
I did not know Tim Russert personally but this article by Gwen Ifil makes me fill like he truly was and always be a Standup Brother. I have many friends from varied ethnic and International backbrounds amd I can appreciate the distinction we all share and can benefit from each other. I consider myself a human sponge absorbing as much as others chose to share with me about life's triumphs and challenges. I was not a die hard viewer of Meet the Press but I knew who Tim Russert was. LIke a historic figure he will be remembered for times to come. I will research as much as I can about him and hopelfully if I am not careful learn from the standards he set for a generation who rarily sees hope amongst our trials and tribulations...funny thing is looking in the mirror there is a little Tim Russert in all of us...seek and ye shall find. Thanks for the insight Gwen.
Stephen Boyd Sr. Binghamton, NY -
Posted By:
DownHome at 06/18/2008 2:52:45 PM
Comment:
Look at what an Ireali newspaper write thinks about what Russert did to Obama: http://web.israelinsider.com/Views/12674.htm -
Posted By:
DownHome at 06/18/2008 2:33:50 PM
Comment:
While you all are preparing to speak at Russert's sainthood ceremony, consider this link to media matters and remember what he did to Obama during the last MSNBC debate. http://mediamatters.org/items/200802270006 -
Posted By:
bvb720 at 06/18/2008 12:12:12 PM
Comment:
Very nice article. Sorry that you are not getting the Meet the Press Position. "In a Statement from NBC they stated NBC wanted to keep viewers watching".
Good Luck in the Future -
Posted By:
danatelly09 at 06/18/2008 11:32:15 AM
Comment:
Tim was one in a million. Meet The Press has lost a fortune. He kept it real. You saw the excitement in his eyes, and the love of giving you his best. I enjoyed just watching him deliver. -
Posted By:
danatelly09 at 06/18/2008 11:27:04 AM
Comment:
He was a great commentator. He will be missed. I would have loved to see the
expression on his face when Obama becomes President of the United States of America. -
Posted By:
Blackcraw at 06/17/2008 6:11:33 PM
Comment:
???Tim allowed me to say what I had to say, knowing it would not make him look good. That does not happen a lot???in life or politics.??? Friendship is the single piece of edvidence that illustrates most clearly the value of being alive for it is the company we keep that defines us. Gwen Ifill article is a kindness directed toward her friend that brings to a joy. I can not think of any better tribute to another than to call them ???Friend???. -
Posted By:
Blackcraw at 06/17/2008 6:11:01 PM
Comment:
???Tim allowed me to say what I had to say, knowing it would not make him look good. That does not happen a lot???in life or politics.??? Friendship is the single piece of edvidence that illustrates most clearly the value of being alive for it is the company we keep that defines us. Gwen Ifill's article is a kindness directed toward her friend that brings to me joy. I can not think of any better tribute to another than to call them ???Friend???. -
Posted By:
DownHome at 06/17/2008 5:07:58 PM
Comment:
I feel badly for Russert's family but...... Gwen, are you willing to say that you did not observe Russert's access to the Bush white house and to his softballing Cheney on MTP? I remember you pointing out his failure registger a response to Imus. Yes, Gwen, did Russert have much to say about that cleaning lady comment related to you? Bush/Cheney and Imus are close associations with Russert and sweetheart and bright and wonderful as you are, I have no doubt that they have typical views about us. And what about the unfair questioning of Obama at the last debate he moderated? You know the question that injected Farrkhan in a way that was designed to hurt Obama because you know requiring Obama to answer put him between a rock and a hard place and allowed HIllary to get a few digs in. His questioning could do nothing else. First, it was designed to add to doubt Jews have about Obama. Second, force him into rejecting not only the man's comments but the man himself and pushing him to choosing between his own base who is not outraged by Jews (us) and Jews and pro Isreal folks. Yes, Russert was part of the group that added to whatever issues Obama has with Jews. If Russert was some sort of mentor to you and gave you a chance, your appreciation for that is OK but please don't try to act like he cared for and about black folks. Understand that you got your chance because of your talent, your experience and because you are Black. He needed you. Don't get it twisted with all this Russert sentimentality, my sista. -
Posted By:
tgaspo at 06/17/2008 3:12:51 PM
Comment:
Beautiful column. I am a former columnist and couldn't dream of doing a piece that good. Gwen captured it all. Russert was the definition of rare.
The ending of the story made me catch my breath.
Gaspo -
Posted By:
keli1974 at 06/17/2008 2:31:29 PM
Comment:
I'm a young black journalist and a devotee to "Meet the Press," and I can't imagine what my Sunday mornings will look like now. I wish I'd known all these wonderful things about Tim Russert while he was alive, just how generous and dedicated he was to his friends and his work. I just plain enjoyed him. I'm glad my instincts were right. And thank you Gwen Ifill for being so honest in your discussions about race. Keli Dailey -
Posted By:
IslandGyal at 06/17/2008 1:20:26 PM
Comment:
I am a liberal viewer of political journalism, but I always thought Tim to be the most objective reporter. While I like Chris Matthews and Keith Olbermann, we know their political leaning, but Tim, while I knew he was a Democrat, kept that out of his analysis. He came across as a very nice person, and now to hear that he did indeed match in person, the TV persona, is very refreshing. I will miss him. -
Posted By:
DrewReason at 06/17/2008 12:46:13 PM
Comment:
I have followed Suzanne Malveux, and Joe Johns since their local reporting days on WRC back in DC. I was happy to see them both on cable network after moved far away from home. I also was there when Gwen Ifill began her job on PBS. Tim Russert has kind of always been there and his being in contact with the three mentioned reporters really explains why he NEVER EVER bothered me with his critical commentary on race!! He is well informed!!!
if only Ifill, Johns, and Malveaux could do the same for Lou Dobbs, then America Would be Fixed. (probably).
At anyrate, I saw the broadcast with Ifill, and the conversation on "queasy" white folks and black folks and race. It was one of the best, if not the best, moments in critical political conversation since the primaries began. AND YES, indeed, I was awestruck at Russert's comment about wishing to be a professor the next day. It said a lot about his committment to bringing scholastic conversation into press reporting. And that was a good day in broadcast news.
He will be missed. Particularly by black folks who don't like to be insulted while watching television. -
Posted By:
tyield at 06/17/2008 11:37:11 AM
Comment:
I am an african american doctor who first watched the Original meet the press at the age of 6 on my father's knee. I have often wished for more black participation in journalism on tv and am pleased to be seeing more cogent black participationl. I and my son looked forward to seeing Tim every Sunday for Meet the Press and am truely saddened by his passing. I looked to him for an impartial inquisitive examination of the issues and I do not believe I ever saw any racial or political bias. He was a Standup Guy. T L Daniels, MD FACC -
Posted By:
kathleen marie at 06/17/2008 10:44:55 AM
Comment:
My husband and I are from the Western New York area, I am Irish Catholic and he is Italian Catholic,so, we felt a kinship with Tim Russert. He so loved his faith and his upbringing in Buffalo. No one will ever be able to replace him. God Bless him and his family he loved so well. Kathy O. -
Posted By:
Tracye at 06/17/2008 10:21:23 AM
Comment:
Wow. My 9 year old son noticed that Tim's death is being covered more than if the President had died. I said I know. I also told my son that Tim was a good man and that if you are a good man, when you die, people will never want to stop talking about you. I've been watching all the coverage on Tim, even recording stuff to watch later... and I don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing how good of a person he was. I liked him before, but unfortunately I'm learning a lot more about him now that he's gone. His son is even more than what Tim ever said - I was very impressed with Luke on the Today Show. Gwen this article is great - I saw the Meet the Press on Sunday with Tom and you guys did a great job. When he covered the thing with Barack that night, it was like he was trying to say, hey, wake up, this is history! It was like he was trying to wake the world up. Like you said, it was all over his face. Wow, too bad he can't be here. What will this race do without him? You guys have to do it for him Gwen. -
Posted By:
tmvf103045 at 06/17/2008 10:01:06 AM
Comment:
Tim was the king of holding people accountable for what they say and do. Tim was the perfect example of a great son, a wonderful father and a true Roman Catholic who let his faith guide him through the avenues of truth and the idea that feelings count when it comes to your children. He knew how to show his love for his family and for his country. Tim will be missed but his legacy will live with us forever. -
Posted By:
Grace Needed at 06/17/2008 8:57:30 AM
Comment:
We can never know all there is to know, and a humble, truthseeker is not ashamed to admit this. My firm opinion that keeps bearing out in these blogs, is the reason Tim Russert was so loved, had less to do with his political acumen and more to do with his authenticity. Most people can't help but be drawn to anyone who is as open and comfortable with who they are and there roots, as Tim Russert was. Yes, he had the capacity through his work to endear many to him and we are so thankful he had this position, so we could know him and love him, as his family and neighbors did long before the public masses. When I think of Tim, I think of the Joshua series of books that had as their central character "Joshua" a Christian who really took on the New Testament's meaning of who and what a Christian should look like in our modern world. Tim was our Joshua in our world today. He represented what we should all aspire to. -
Posted By:
webster71 at 06/16/2008 10:51:03 PM
Comment:
Thanks to Gwen Ifill for this open account from an insider's view. She and Tim Russert have shared the rare talent for displaying human authenticity while simultaneously appearing on television.
I respected Russert for being more insightful and less sheepish than most mainstream reporters in the U.S., but with respect to his memory, I hope Ms. Ifill could be an even more challenging host to the "high-level" sources that appear on Meet the Press (or the PBS New Hour).
BBC radio announcer Robin Lustig is an example. Much like an attorney, he poses questions that are adversarial, but overtly so only in theory. When an interviewee begins to enter predictable territory, Lustig cuts them off.
What could be judged as badgering in a courtroom is fair game in journalism, and the confrontational BBC style results in more sophisticated material than the American news outlets deliver, in my opinion -
Posted By:
webster71 at 06/16/2008 10:50:25 PM
Comment:
Thanks to Gwen Ifill for this open account from an insider's view. She and Tim Russert have shared the rare talent for displaying human authenticity while simultaneously appearing on television.
I respected Russert for being more insightful and less sheepish than most mainstream reporters in the U.S., but with respect to his memory, I hope Ms. Ifill could be an even more challenging host to the "high-level" sources that appear on Meet the Press (or the PBS New Hour).
BBC radio announcer Robin Lustig is an example. Much like an attorney, he poses questions that are adversarial, but overtly so only in theory. When an interviewee begins to enter predictable territory, Lustig cuts them off.
What could be judged as badgering in a courtroom is fair game in journalism, and the confrontational BBC style results in more sophisticated material than the American news outlets deliver, in my opinion -
Posted By:
Cam at 06/16/2008 10:24:35 PM
Comment:
I am very touched but not surprised by what Gwen has so eloquently written. She is, as always, an insightful, honest person and her words serve to reinforce what I, as a viewer and fan of both Gwen and TIm, believe I know about them as people and journalists. It is very telling that so many hours of TV in the last few days, and other media, have been spent mourning Tim Russert. I am sure he would pooh-pooh this lavish attention in a wave of humility. Let's look at what it means: true, enduring respect for an honest, dedicated journalist/commentator on politics and government, a realm that is often neither honest or dedicated. Let us all embrace politics and the election of 2008 in the spirit of engagement and discovery that Tim did. This would be the most fitting tribute to him. Cam -
Posted By:
keripitcher at 06/16/2008 10:07:32 PM
Comment:
I second TrueBlue's comments! Gwen Ifill would be a PERFECT choice for Meet the Press. She's covered just about every media in a thought provoking, measured way. I love her! PLEASE NBC... (anyone know where to write to NBC about this?) -
Posted By:
Bubuday at 06/16/2008 9:59:06 PM
Comment:
Gwen, thanks so much for sharing this wonderful testimony and tribute. I, too, was pissed off at Russert at times for his support of Imus and for his "too white" "too often" round table. Bottom line -flawed, imperfect Tim was real and a rightous Brother, for sure. We will miss him because NBC and MSM (main stream media) and Sunday morning are now a bit diminished and less tantalizingly fun.
Obama '08
Orlando, Florida -
Posted By:
True Blue at 06/16/2008 6:36:53 PM
Comment:
Please, NBC: try to lure Gwen to take on the Meet the Press gig. She's one of the only names I've heard mentioned that made sense to me. This beautiful piece cinches it. I remember being pleasantly startled when she came back at Meacham with zero hesitation as she made her very salient point about race. -
Posted By:
stonelady at 06/16/2008 6:15:38 PM
Comment:
Great tribute.
To see and hear all the memorials has reaffirmed, justified the personal impressions I got from this "talking head" every Sunday a.m. , etc.
To learn that Mr. Russert had a role in the career of Ms. Ifill , another favorite , is so....neat! Hearing how he operated in such gracious and selfless ways, that the joy and twinkle we saw was more real than I ever imagined. Watching all the people who felt such a closeness to him-he apparently gave with such joy and grace-I felt all the greater sadness for these people who wouldn't get another enthusiastic phone call from him to share , not his, but their joy. I hope that every time he's missed his "twinkle" will be shared>
Isn't it just a joy to think of a respected, successful, intelligent grown man having a "twinkle"...and thwe warm feeling that gives! -
Posted By:
johnclarkiii at 06/16/2008 5:49:04 PM
Comment:
Gwen: As the son of a Mexican-American woman and African-American man, I have learned to draw upon my own unique perspectives, especially in the areas of race and culture. Watching Tim (and, at times, you) on Sunday mornings has long been a tradition in my own family's house. My Mexican-American wife and I discussed "the twinkle" you discussed, as well as the wonderfully honest giddiness Tim effervesced when Obama neared the nomination. As I reflect, I, too, feel like Tim was most interested in Truth (with a capital 'T'), regardless of the political repercussions; regardless of what some may think; and regardless of the little ???t??? truths. I, too, will miss Tim Russert. Thanx for the validation. -
Posted By:
itzik basman at 06/16/2008 4:58:33 PM
Comment:
Your piece on tim was wonderful. I have only read you two times. The first was your editorial on Imus starting with the musicality of the girls' first names. I had tears then and I have tears now.
Itzik Basman -
Posted By:
delta at 06/16/2008 3:41:01 PM
Comment:
Beautiul tribute, Gwen ; but then, you are a brilliant inspiration to many of us. What you've written proves what I have always said about Tim Russert. Iin addition to his extraordinary talent he best exemplified the last line of this wonderful song: 'when Irish eyes are smiling they will steal your heart away!' -
Posted By:
cancan at 06/16/2008 3:03:46 PM
Comment:
Thank you for this lovely article about Mr. Russert. I am truly sad that the world has lost his voice, his integrity, his skill and his decency. -
Posted By:
Tycerotop at 06/16/2008 2:52:28 PM
Comment:
The Truth. Gwen's insightful homage to Tim Russert, was about a decent human being who shook up the establisment. His desire to hold politician accountable with his national program Meet The Press, also ran true with his position as bureau chief of NBC News in Washington.
I was a colleague of Gwen when she first arrived in Washington DC as a correspondent for NBC News. As an African-American video editor (a person who assembles all the visual / audio / technical / written elements required to make confusion into a physical news story, that viewers actually see), I had the rewarding pleasure of being one of the people to take Gwen from a virtual novice, into the polished pro she is today. Saying she was "green" would be a vast understatement! But as Lou Grant used to say, "She's got spunk"! Plus Gwen also had a deep inquisitive desire to learn. I had been in the news business for nearly 20 years as a broadcast journailst when I met Gwen. She was by far the quickest study of what it took to be a television broadcaster. Gwen had already cut her journalism chops with the New York Times and other print outlets. But the fact that Gwen was given this opportunity to excel and succeed in a generally "white male" and politically structured enviornment at NBC, was a testament to Tim Russerts, desire to add her to his stable of correspondent talent at NBC. I was not aware of the behind scenes negotiations of Tim bringing Gwen into the fold, but I knew we needed her and other African-American voices and faces as well.
Tim broke barriers time and time again during my tenure at NBC. He did the same for me and countless other people as well. If there was a problem, Tim wanted it fixed! It had to be fair and above all, for the betterment of the larger picture.
Yeah Tim, I was happy to know ya...
Tyrone Couch -
Posted By:
mehamb01 at 06/16/2008 1:50:42 PM
Comment:
Dear Ms. Ifill:
Thank you for this piece on Tim Russert. Like so many others, I am deeply saddened by his passing; Sunday mornings will never be the same. Having said that, I hope you are on the short list for potential replacements. I have truly enjoyed your poignant insights on MTP, Washington Week, and The News Hour with Jim Lehrer. I look forward to your continued commentary during this truly historic election year.
Regards,
M. E. Hambrick -
Posted By:
kpaumer08 at 06/16/2008 1:45:37 PM
Comment:
Dear Ms. Ifill, I have been a fan of yours for quite some time. It is truly a pleasure to watch you host Washington Week. As a black women who has been interested in politics I am also deeply saddened by the loss of Tim Russert. I am an only child of a single mother and she ALWAYS worked Sunday mornings. I started the morning by watching CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Kuralt and finished with Meet the Press. I felt even then that he had a genuine curiosity about people and always treated everyone with respect. He interviewed Minister Louis Farrakan and Allen Iverson, when neither were popular. He was a good man and exemplified all that is good in humanity, Love of God, Family and Country. I hope we can learn something from his life and keep it with us. My prayers are with his family and you, his
colleagues. Sunday Mornings will never be the same without him.
Kim Paumer -
Posted By:
Tampa Diva at 06/16/2008 1:38:14 PM
Comment:
I was shocked to hear of Tim Russert's Death. I'm even more shocked by how I and many of my peers have been saddened by thiis tradgedy ( we're under 25). Tim Russert was a stand up guy and an example of what a politcal journalist should be. His genuine love of his profession and desire to see all sides of the truth permeated through the screen. There will never be another like him ( anyone who gets this much love after the Imus snanfu is something great!) but hopefully someone will be close.
Rest in Peace Time Russert, It'll be hard getting dressed for church without you.. -
Posted By:
David K at 06/16/2008 1:35:29 PM
Comment:
Although I knew of Meet the Press and other weekend morning news shows on broadcast TV, over the years I gravitated to the no nonsense professionalism of the Jim Lehrer News Hour (including Gwen Ifill and the other top notch regulars). But on the night Barack Obama clinched the nomination I was watching on cable news and "rediscovered" Tim Russert (as a panelist). I then began to watch Meet the Press on purpose and witnessed the illuminating commentary from Gwen on Tim's program. Sen. Obama's nomination and current run at the Whitehouse has catalyzed meaningful, if diffucult, dialogue about race in America like nothing much else since the 1960's. Tim Russert's genuine and positive enthusiasm was such a triumph over the negative and conservative protectionism promulgated by many cable TV "news" shows. And I look forward to Gwen Ifill continuing to keep the converstaion about race going from her knowledgeable perspective. -
Posted By:
Pete at 06/16/2008 1:32:15 PM
Comment:
Too bad that Tim and yourself did not expose the Clintons for what they were and still are when they first entered the national arena of politics. Only if someone of your's and Tim's statue had come to Arkansas to discuss the Clintons other than Democrats. -
Posted By:
Pete at 06/16/2008 1:22:51 PM
Comment:
I applaud persons like Tim Russert and you. Those that are not afraid to discuus the issues without condeming everyone. But, I am afraid to say that it is too late for the good to come out. EVIL has taken over and will continue to do so until enough people become like you and Tim. -
Posted By:
htarcm at 06/16/2008 1:17:46 PM
Comment:
Beautiful words and true expresions. Just like Qwell wrote, I too am slightly puzzled by how much Tim Russert's death is effecting me. Is it the idea that you can inately understand when someone possesses those admirable human qualities of caring, sharing and loving along with a tireless work ethic. Only the good die young really hits the mark. Jim McRath -
Posted By:
Ganpat at 06/16/2008 12:34:20 PM
Comment:
Tim was the patron saint of unblushing Obamaniacs.
He will be grinning down there as they come marching in. -
Posted By:
Ronone at 06/16/2008 12:31:22 PM
Comment:
Gwen, thank you so much for your tribute to Tim Russert. I have been late many times to Sunday School because I could not tear myself away from the television set when "Meet The Press" was on the air. I am not a great political person but Tim made me think with questions that he ask of the politicians. He asked the questions that all of wanted to ask and usually he got to the straight answer. My prayers are with his family and friends. Thanks for letting us know the man a little more. God bless you. -
Posted By:
Qwell at 06/16/2008 12:21:24 PM
Comment:
Gwen, I add my voice to all the others in sending my greif stricken condolences. I'm can't put my finger on why the passing of someone I never met has affected me so, but ... If you have the chance, please tell his father "Big Russ" that I hope to raise my African American boy's and girls to be as open hearted, and open minded. The world could use many more people of Tim Russert's kind. -
Posted By:
Qwell at 06/16/2008 12:18:48 PM
Comment:
Gwen, I add my voice to all the others in sending my greif stricken condolences. I'm can't put my finger on why the passing of someone I never meet has affected me so, but ... If you have the chance, please tell his father "Big Russ" that I hope to raise my African American boy's and girls to be as open hearted, and open minded. The would could use many more people of Tim Russert's kind. -
Posted By:
Allison E. at 06/16/2008 12:17:54 PM
Comment:
Absolutely wonderful tribute, Gwen-- one of the most honest and thoughtful I've seen. Tim is sorely missed in my home.
He may be given some credit for your successful career (after all, everyone can credit someone for having a hand in their success), but you earned it too. I enjoy your show on PBS.
Thank you for sharing these kind words, and the different perspective is wonderfully refreshing. -
Posted By:
dawkins1975 at 06/16/2008 12:12:47 PM
Comment:
Tim Russert was a man of equallity and very well spoken, I like his way of style and his views on things to explain how he felt on a subject. He will be missed greatly. -
Posted By:
christopher Taylor Edwards at 06/16/2008 11:25:40 AM
Comment:
This is the first remembrance of Mr. Russert that I've read that actually moved me to tears. As well as completely (almost 180 degrees) changed my opinion of him. Very well said. Thank you sharing this at this time of your grief. -
Posted By:
decentman at 06/16/2008 10:31:20 AM
Comment:
Thank you Gwen, well said. Like Tim, you too are a truth teller. Our country is in dire need of more engaging citizens who speak from the heart like Tim Russert. Tim exposed the truth and lies associated with American politics and held its practitioners accountable for what they said and did. He was a great role model for Americans in terms of living the love of country, family and friends. Carry on Gwen and be inspired by Tim's Irish flames of passion. -
Posted By:
StefaniZ at 06/16/2008 10:26:05 AM
Comment:
Thank you for your thoughts, Gwen. The beautiful thing is that I felt this about Tim before you shared your memories and experieces with him. In the world of celebrity, you can never really know a person's true self but its nice to have your trust in a human spirit confirmed. Tiim was a fine human spirit as is evidenced by his work, friends, colleagues and a wonderful young man I caught a glimpse of this morning, Luke. Thank you Tim for years of good news and good works. My ipod and I thank you for convincing Gwen to host Washington Week. Continue to speak truth to power. -
Posted By:
casajava at 06/16/2008 5:26:37 AM
Comment:
Gwen,
Thank You for affirming what I always believed about Tim Russert. He reallly seemed to be a stand-up guy. He will truly be missed.-
Posted By:
Taff at 06/16/2008 9:54:06 AM
Comment:
Thank you Gwen for this befitting tribute to Tim, even if I didn't meet him personally, I felt like I knew his spirit, I too loved and respected his frankness and his fearless search for the truth, I love how he spoke truth to power. I'm an African American man and I too considered him a brother, a spiritual brother, for his enthusiasm, for the human family and how we related to each other and our families, seemed more important to Tim than anything else (even MTP) as I heard him say it himself in an interview. I'm morning Tim as I would any family member or close friend. I weep for his family and close friends, and pray that his sould be at peace. Keep the smile on Tim....Taff
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Posted By:
Ritainlongbeach at 06/16/2008 2:45:32 AM
Comment:
Gwen: Thank you for your words about Tim Russert and my deepest condolences to you. I wish I could have known him personally especially after the many kind remembrances on MSNBC I heard from you and so many others who were close to him and respected and loved him. I always thought highly of him, especially in this historical campaign--to hear your story increases my regard and warms my heart even more. His support of you increases my respect. I am thrilled beyond words for you, my African-American friends and my bi-racial son that it is Barack Obama, who is and will be the agent of change we need so badly in our country. And yes, history has been changed. I love you recollection of Tim Russert's remark about that classroom the day after Barack Obama had the nomination. In every classroom, not just in the United states, e v e r y child can - more than ever before - aspire to pursue her or his dreams. Keep up the good work and I'll be watching you more closely on PBS!
Rita in Long Beach -
Posted By:
Toksieb at 06/16/2008 1:04:33 AM
Comment:
Thanks for the tribute Gwen; I was stunned and saddened by his death as well. It is always reassuring, as a black person in this country, to see a white person, a white man at that, be so down to earth and candid. I really became an avid Meet the Press viewer during this primary season, and Tim was a huge part of that--I felt very connected to the "keep it real" way that he would grill his guests and not let them beat around the bush on anything. One of the things that saddens me the most about his death is that he will not be alive to witness even more history if Obama does in fact become president. Tim's enthusiasm about these elections was part of what made them so exciting for viewers. It's very difficult to imagine him not being around for this that awaits us in the coming months. RIP Tim Russert. -
Posted By:
LaDonnarenee at 06/16/2008 12:57:19 AM
Comment:
Thank you Gwen. I suspected that he was a wonderful person and your words confirmed it. He will be sorely missed and my prayers are with his wife, son, Dad and sisters. -
Posted By:
RobinJ at 06/15/2008 9:59:34 PM
Comment:
Thanks, Gwen. What a wonderful tribute. To me, the death of Tim Russert was like losing a very close friend. I so admired his keen instincts, incredible intellect and warm spirit all traits that I admire about you too. It's funny how I sit here tonight and compose this email on Father's Day 2008. My husband and I were talking to our kids about our favorite memories of our fathers who both died much too young. My dad at 56 and my husband's at 42. Well we're both 46 now and today I'm missing my Dad something awful. He would have been thrilled beyond imagination at the historical season we're witnessing. Yet, my husband and I are demonstrating democracy in action to our children as we have volunteered since Super Tuesday our home as the Obamba HQ for our town and my husband is the Coordinator for the Lawyers in our County. As my 10 year old daughter expressed sadness for the Russert Family today, I thought about my Dad who was funeralized by your Dad in 1979 at Union AME. Your Dad had just arrived and appointed my Dad President of the Trustee Board, however cancer took him away within 6 months. Your Dad gave my father a funeral fit for the awsome man of God he was. Gwen, I thank you for your incredible gift that you share with America. Robin - -
Posted By:
Nimale at 06/15/2008 8:48:57 PM
Comment:
I was working in my garden when my daughter called to tell me that Time Russert suddenly has passed away. I was in total shock and disbelief. I came in the house to hear for myself and my eyes stay glued to the television with extreme sadness knowing that I would not have the pleasure of seeing Meet the Press hosted by Mr. Russert again. He will be truly missed by many with his quick wit, sense of humor and getting honest and informative news out to the people.
Nimale 6/15/09 -