Tim Russert, 1950-2008, R.I.P.

I normally don’t post things of this nature on Backstage, but I wanted to take a moment to lament the death today of Tim Russert—best known as the host of NBC’s Meet The Press—a journalist who I considered inspirational. Opinionated, well-informed, honest, and willing to speak truth to power, Russert set the gold standard for political journalism, and his untimely passing will leave a huge gap in both American news and politics. Rest in peace, Mr. Russert, and may those you leave behind be better for the lessons you taught us.