Tim Russert
Tim Russert
A Lifetime of Journalism and Public Service
Full Name and Common Aliases
Timothy John Russert was a renowned American journalist, attorney, and television host, best known for his work on NBC's Meet the Press.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: February 7, 1950, in Buffalo, New York
Died: June 18, 2008, in Washington D.C., at the age of 58
Nationality and Profession(s)
Russert was an American journalist and television host by profession. He held dual citizenship of the United States and Ireland.
Early Life and Background
Tim Russert grew up in a traditional Irish-American household in Buffalo, New York. His father, Timothy J. Russert Sr., was a U.S. Marshal who died when Tim was just 18 years old. This event had a profound impact on his life, shaping his sense of justice and public service. Russert attended Canisius High School and later earned a Bachelor's degree in History from John Carroll University in 1972.
Major Accomplishments
Russert began his journalism career as an intern at Meet the Press in 1976, eventually becoming the moderator of the show in 1991. During his tenure, he was known for his tough but fair questioning style and ability to connect with his guests. He also worked as a special correspondent for NBC News, covering presidential elections and major news events.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions of Tim Russert include:
Russert's most notable work was probably the 2004 presidential election coverage on Meet the Press, where he famously asked President George W. Bush about his "misspeak" regarding the war in Iraq.
In addition to his journalism career, Russert was a successful author. His book, "Big Russ and Me: Father and Son – Lessons of Life," co-authored with his father's ghostwriter, was published in 2004.
Russert also served as a professor at John Carroll University, teaching classes on communication and public policy.
Impact and Legacy
Tim Russert's impact on journalism and American politics cannot be overstated. He set the standard for tough but fair questioning and inspired a new generation of journalists to follow in his footsteps.
His legacy extends beyond his work on Meet the Press. As a devoted husband, father, and son, he showed that family values are essential in achieving success. Russert's commitment to public service is evident in his work as a U.S. Marshal's son and his involvement with various charitable organizations throughout his life.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Tim Russert is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
His no-nonsense questioning style on Meet the Press earned him respect from politicians, journalists, and viewers alike.
His book "Big Russ and Me" humanized him as a father and son who overcame adversity to build strong relationships.
Russert's dedication to public service and commitment to fairness in journalism are qualities that continue to inspire many.
As we reflect on Tim Russert's remarkable life, we remember a man who lived by his values of integrity, compassion, and courage. His legacy will endure as an example for generations to come.
Quotes by Tim Russert
We can be for peace without supporting the enemy. We can be against this war without rooting for the other side.
Growing up, I didn’t know about families who were missing a father, because there weren’t any in our neighborhood. Today over a third of American children are born into single-parent homes. Is this all men’s doing?
How troubling is that to you, that only 2 percent of African-Americans say that George Bush is doing a good job as president?
I cannot find a pollster who can remember any president ever getting just two percent approval from African-Americans.
Hey, do you know that all the reporters know that Mr. Wilson's wife works at the CIA?
Clearly the special counsel has made a judgment, ... that when taking the comments and statements of Matt Cooper and Judy Miller and myself as opposed to Scooter Libby, he has decided that Mr. Libby was not telling the truth.
Inside the C.I.A. leak indictments, including the role of journalists, including yours truly,
there was a perception created of incompetence, some even said callousness and he needs to replace it with compassion.
