Tim Russert: Death of a National Treasure

THE Constitution of the United States of America guarantees freedom of speech and freedom of the press. TV reporters in the USA, however, are not completely free because they have to satisfy their sponsors and the stations’ producers and managers. Despite this obstacle, journalist Tim Russert managed to report the truth, however unpleasant, and to drag the truth out of even the most unwilling participant. His style of interviewing was both respected and feared as he gallantly exposed weaknesses, deception, and corruption. After being interviewed by Russert, former POW John McCain whipped, “I haven’t had so much fun since my last interrogation.”

I considered Tim Russert the most brilliant and valuable TV reporter of the last decade. Russert regarded his show “Meet the Press” as a “national treasure” for which he was merely a “temporary custodian.” Tim Russert himself was a national treasure! His sudden death, at age 58, was a tremendous loss for America and the world. He saw his work as a journalist, not as a job, but a mission –one for which he held himself highly accountable. He was a person of integrity and honesty. His vibrant passion, contagious enthusiasm, tireless energy, and shining personality embellished a program that was extremely well orchestrated. “Meet the Press” was a voice of truth in an atmosphere of civility rarely seen in our polarized society. Journalist Tom Brokaw remarked, “Having ‘Meet the Press’ on the air gave all other journalists something to report.”

Tim Russert had an amazing smile and endearing persona. He was a dedicated son, father, and husband, and a genuine patriot. He had faith in God and believed in the power of prayer, and he was never ashamed to let others know of his faith. He was known as a friend to everyone, including the ragged stranger. Russert was quoted as saying, “The best exercise for the human heart is to pick someone up.” Russert picked up the entire country every Sunday morning by blazing a path to truth on his unique TV program. He was a national and global treasure that simply cannot be replaced.