Tim Russert Remembered

WASHINGTON - Tim Russert, NBC News’ Washington bureau chief and the moderator of “Meet the Press,” died Friday after a sudden heart attack at the bureau, NBC News said Friday. He was 58.

Russert was recording voiceovers for Sunday’s “Meet the Press” program when he collapsed, the network said. He and his family had recently returned from Italy, where they celebrated the graduation of Russert’s son, Luke, from Boston College.

No further details were immediately available.

You can read more about Tim Russert and live coverage on MSNBC.

On a personal note, it's hard as a journalist to believe that one of the greatest political journalists of our times is no longer with us. I always admired Tim Russert for how he reported without bias and aggressively went after the truth. I had only one opportunity to work with him, and it was an amazing experience. I helped produce a live debate for during the Florida's senate race between Mel Martinez and Betty Castor in 2004. He was so impressive. So sharp, so fair in his moderation.

And who can forget the presidential debacle in 2000. I'll never forget Russert sitting there with his dry erase board when the country had no idea who was going to be the president, Al Gore or George Bush. For hours upon hours he sat on that anchor desk and made sure, we the American people, could follow the votes going back and forth. He broke it down in a way we could understand. This is truly a sad day. Please keep his family and friends in your prayers.

Stylishly yours,
Miss Attitude

P.S. NBC is airing a special from 10-11 p.m. (EST) on Tim Russert's life. Tom Brokaw will anchor. (rev. at 4:54 p.m.)