MyDD :: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack

Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack

by Todd Beeton, Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:44:47 PM EST

Tim Russert, NBC journalist and political heavyweight host of "Meet the Press," has died after collapsing at NBC's Washington news bureau, a source said. He was 58 years old.

All our thoughts are with his family and friends today. Tom Brokaw just paid a moving tribute to him on MSNBC.

Update [2008-6-13 16:13:18 by Todd Beeton]:More from MSNBC.com:

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.
Russert was best known as host of “Meet the Press,” which he took over in December 1991. Now in its 60th year, “Meet the Press” is the longest-running program in the history of television.
But he was also a vice president of NBC News and head of its overall Washington operations, a nearly round-the-clock presence on NBC and MSNBC on election nights.
He was “one of the premier political journalists and analysts of his time,” Tom Brokaw, the former longtime anchor of “NBC Nightly News,” said in announcing Russert’s death. “This news division will not be the same without his strong, clear voice.”
In 2008, Time Magazine named Russert him one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Update [2008-6-13 16:42:13 by Todd Beeton]:A moving tribute to Tim Russert from Barack Obama per MSNBC:

I've known Tim Russert since I first spoke at the convention in 2004. He's somebody who over time I came to consider not only a journalist but a friend. There wasn't a better interviewer in television, not a more thoughtful analyst of our politics and he was also one of the finest men I knew, somebody who cared about America, cared about the issues, cared about family. I am grief-stricken with the loss and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family and I hope that even though Tim is irreplaceable that the standard that he set in his professional life and with his family life are standards that we all carry with us in our own lives.

Tags: tim russert (all tags)

Permalink :: 132 Comments :: Post a Comment

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 7)

That's terrible. Way too young.

"Another problem we have...is that in election years we behave somewhat as primitive peoples do at the time of the full moon." --Harry Truman

by Steve M on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:46:37 PM EST

OMG! (2.00 / 5)

When tragedy strikes, it too often does so far too suddenly. This is truly unfortunate, because despite his flaws Tim Russert is one of the best journalists in America. Far too young.

John McCain wants you to be poor!

by nklein on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:49:32 PM EST

P.S. (2.00 / 4)

Isn't his father still alive? If so, that is a shame, because no parent should have to outlive his/her son or daughter.

John McCain wants you to be poor!

by nklein on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:50:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Yes (2.00 / 2)

Terry McAluffe joked that Big Russ was watching from heaven. Russert responded that he was more likely to be watching from his barka-lounger.

In this avalanche, the pebbles get to vote.

by Dracomicron on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:00:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 5)

Wow...
just...wow.

ENOUGH!

by JDF on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:50:10 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 4)

i had to read and reread his name. Just couldn't believe it.

shocking.

by alex100 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:50:39 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

I can't believe this.
The man looked healthy to me.

HUGE blow to NBC news.

by stefystef on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:50:55 PM EST

Very young. Seems rare these days (2.00 / 1)

statins and blood thinners seem to have curtailed heart attacks like this.

A friend of the family just died and he was taking Vioxx.

by catfish2 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:51:01 PM EST

WHAT!?! (1.80 / 5)

I'm in shock.

My prayers got out to his family and friends.

We want to see Ivana [Trump] because we are so desperate in Alaska for any semblance of glamour and culture. - Sarah Palin

by spacemanspiff on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:51:41 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 5)

Talk about a double take. I thought it was a joke a first. RIP.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:51:42 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 6)

Sad news. His enthusiasm for his job was alway evident. Rest in Peace.

Consider that everything which happens, happens justly, and if thou observest carefully, thou wilt find it to be so. -Marcus Aurelius

by Blue Neponset on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:51:44 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 6)

RIP Tim. My wife and I never missed you on Sunday mornings. You'll be missed.

by rhines on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:51:48 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

This is really sad especially with the dearth of truly informed journalists these days.

by AIegra on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:52:09 PM EST

Here's Tim Russert vs. dick Cheney (none / 0)

Meet the Press Sept . 1st 2003

MR. RUSSERT: This is what concerns people, that the administration hyped the intelligence, misled the American people. This article from The Washington Post about pressuring from Cheney visits: "Vice President Cheney and his most senior aide made multiple trips to the CIA over the past year to question analysts studying Iraq's weapons programs and alleged links to al Qaeda, creating an environment in which some analyst felt they were being pressured to make their assessments fit wth the Bush administration's policy objectives, according to senior intelligence officials. With Cheney taking the lead in the administration last August in advocating military action against Iraq by claiming it had weapons of mass destruction, the visits by the vice president and his chief of staff `sent signals, intended or otherwise, that a certain output was desired from here,' one senior agency official said."

VICE PRES. CHENEY: In terms of asking questions, I plead guilty. I ask a hell of a lot of questions. That's my job. I've had an interest in the intelligence area since I worked for Gerry Ford 30 years ago, served on the Intel Committee in the House for years in the '80s, ran a big part of the intelligence community when I was secretary of Defense in the early '90s. This is a very important area. It's one the president's asked me to work on, and I ask questions all the time. I think if you're going to provide the intelligence and advice to the president of the United States to make life and death decisions, you need to be able to defend your conclusions, go into an arena where you can make the arguments about why you believe what you do based on the intelligence we're got.

MR. RUSSERT: No pressure?

VICE PRES. CHENEY: Shouldn't be any pressure. I can't think of a single instance. Maybe somebody can produce one. I'm unaware of any where the community changed a judgment that they made because I asked questions.

MR. RUSSERT: If they were wrong, Mr. Vice President, shouldn't we have a wholesale investigation into the intelligence failure that they predicted...

VICE PRES. CHENEY: What failure?

MR. RUSSERT: That Saddam had biological, chemical and is developing a nuclear program.

VICE PRES. CHENEY: My guess is in the end, they'll be proven right, Tim. On the intelligence business, first of all, it's intelligence. There are judgments involved in all of this. But we've got, I think, some very able people in the intelligence business that review the material here. This was a crucial subject. It was extensively covered for years. We're very good at it. As I say, the British just revalidated their claim. So I'm not sure what the argument is about here. I think in the final analysis, we will find that the Iraqis did have a robust program.

How do you explain why Saddam Hussein, if he had no program, wouldn't come clean and say, "I haven't got a program. Come look"? Then he would have sanctions lifted. He'd earned $100 billion more in oil revenue over the last several years. He'd still be in power. The reason he didn't was because obviously he couldn't comply and wouldn't comply with the U.N. resolutions demanding that he give up his WMD. The Security Council by a 15-to-nothing vote a year ago found him still in violation of those U.N. Security Council resolutions. A lot of the reporting isn't U.S. reporting. It's U.N. reporting on the supplies and stocks of VX and nerve agent and anthrax and so forth that he's never accounted for.

So I say I'm not willing at all at this point to buy the proposition that somehow Saddam Hussein was innocent and he had no WMD and some guy out at the CIA, because I called him, cooked up a report saying he did.

That's crazy. That makes no sense. It bears no resemblance to reality whatsoever...

It's time to restore balance and fairness to our economy,... It's time to stop giving tax cuts to corporations that ship jobs overseas... - Barack Obama

by Lefty Coaster on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 10:42:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

this did come as a huge shock (2.00 / 3)

vote blue in 2008

by sepulvedaj3 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:52:26 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

I'm shocked. Speechless. Wow.

by politicalfan on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:53:24 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

Damn!

by Reaper0Bot0 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:55:06 PM EST

Shocking (2.00 / 3)

My first thought-- wow.

My second thought-- who will replace him on "Meet the Press"?

by Sieglinde on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:56:06 PM EST

Re: Shocking (none / 0)

My guess - Tweety.

Let's elect a Dem President!

by SpanishFly on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:01:05 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Heavens to Betsy No... (none / 0)

...Not Chris Matthews.

Meet the Press is a serious and sophisticated show. Matthews doesn't fit the bill.

My guess would be David Gregory.

by andrewalker08 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:06:03 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Heavens to Betsy No... (none / 0)

More likely Brian Williams.

The sharpest criticism often goes hand in hand with the deepest idealism and love of country. ~RFK

by Vox Populi on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:08:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Heavens to Betsy No... (none / 0)

As long as it isn't Andrea Mitchell who was truly awful whenever she sat in for Tim.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:10:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Heavens to Betsy No... (2.00 / 1)

I don't see how this conversation is appropriate.

It is is disrespectful to use his death as an opportunity to discredit his colleagues.

Im not mad here as I wanted to post praising his gifts to journalism and the devestating blow his loss is, but does that matter to his family, his friends or to Tim himself, cheated out of life by an early death.

Cheated by a disease that kills WAY to many people for such a rich country.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:52:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Heavens to Betsy No... (none / 0)

We've all praised the guy. It doesn't hurt anyone discussing the future.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:58:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Shocking (1.00 / 0)

tweety was MIA last night on MSNBC.

Rise / Repeat / But for god's sake don't spin!

by aliveandkickin on Sat Jun 14, 2008 at 02:58:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Shocking (2.00 / 1)

I'd love to see Chuck Todd take over MTP.

by tessellated on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:21:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Shocking (none / 0)

The more I think about it that is so very likely.

Tim set a big precedent at NBC which I hope not just carries on but gets better.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:25:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Shocking (none / 0)

I agree.

Among the possible NBC personalities, it is Chuck Todd who has that natural quality of accessibility that Tim Russert perfected.

I think he'll be a great successor.

by Sieglinde on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:42:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Shocking (none / 0)

While I think Todd is one of the smartest personalities at MSNBC, afaik he doesn't have much experience interviewing. He's a fantastic commentator, and I'd love to see them take a chance on him, but I don't think it will happen without a few years of grooming. I honestly can't think of who else would be a good fit. Certainly not Matthews or Olbermann.

Rachel Maddow said on her show today that the thing about Russert is that not only was he the most influential beltway reporter, but there is no clear "second best" who could aspire to his stature any time soon.

[ Donate to Barack Obama ]

by semiquaver on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 08:22:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

Apparently it happened while he was at work. That's the sort of thing that journalists tend to romanticize, despite its insensitivity to family.

Fight the Smears!

by Lettuce on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 03:56:22 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

So sad. He was too young, and will be missed.

by writerswrite on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:00:18 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

That is really sad news. His family must be devastated. :(

by tessellated on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:00:27 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 4)

Althought we never met and never spoke, Tim and I spent many an hour together.

He will be missed.

"The only way I can lose this election is if I'm caught in bed with either a dead girl or a live boy."

by AK Democrat on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:00:33 PM EST

Sad news (2.00 / 2)

RIP Tim.

Let's elect a Dem President!

by SpanishFly on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:01:28 PM EST

Rest in Peace Tim (2.00 / 2)

I just saw this on Drudge. I am without words other than to say that this is very, very sad. Tim was one of my favorites covering politics, and we lost him way too young.

by activatedbybush on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:01:41 PM EST

I didn' t know much about him before this year (2.00 / 3)

Before I was interested in politics, I didn't really know much about him.

Now I'm shocked and wondering if my sunday mornings are ever going to be the same.

The guy had nigh-unrivaled enthusiasm for the intersection of politics, history, and the truth.

In this avalanche, the pebbles get to vote.

by Dracomicron on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:02:51 PM EST

Re: I didn' t know much about him before this year (2.00 / 2)

I remember during the election in 2000. How gleeful he was. I stayed up all night that night watching him the whole time. Him and his damn whiteboard.

If you're being chased by an angry bull and then you notice you're also being chased by a swarm of bees, it doesn't really change things. Just keep on running.

by vcalzone on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:33:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

a real loss for journalism and political junkies (2.00 / 3)

People who rise to the top of their profession are always interesting and command respect. His influence was real, including in the current political season.

Our Moment Is Now

by mboehm on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:04:50 PM EST

RIP Tim (2.00 / 3)

Tim Russert has been a big part of my Sundays for the past few years. Tim hosted MTP longer than any other. He will truly be missed. You'd expect not to feel this way when you don't know someone personally, this however is heavy on the chest.

_____________
changiness

by lizardbox on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:07:46 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

This is truly terrible. My condolences to his family.

Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008

by zcflint05 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:09:25 PM EST

we obviously cared for you, (2.00 / 2)

tim russert, and now must go on without you.
condolences to your family, your friends and your many colleagues.

by greenbird on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:10:47 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

Truly shocking. He was quie young.

by linfar on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:11:12 PM EST

RIP Tim...We will miss you! (2.00 / 2)

Tim was one of the better journalist out there, his presence will be missed. My prayers go out to his family and friends.

by netgui68 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:20:15 PM EST

I respected him... (2.00 / 3)

He was fair, he was honest.

by soyousay on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:20:28 PM EST

Re: I respected him... (2.00 / 3)

I won't say he was always fair and honest. But he always tried to be and frequently succeeded. And in the end, I think that's perhaps a better quality to have.

If you're being chased by an angry bull and then you notice you're also being chased by a swarm of bees, it doesn't really change things. Just keep on running.

by vcalzone on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:24:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: I respected him... (2.00 / 1)

he always tried to be and frequently succeeded.

Yes, he definitely tried to be. He would take Republicans and Democrats to task.

by soyousay on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:29:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

From One Irishman to Another (2.00 / 3)

An Irish Funeral Prayer

Death is nothing at all.
It does not count.
I have only slipped away into the next room.
Everything remains as it was.
The old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged.
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by the old familiar name.
Speak of me in the easy way which you always used.
Put no sorrow in your tone.
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effort
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was.
There is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before.
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting, when we meet again.

The above is derived from a sermon written by Henry Scott Holland and delivered in St. Paul's (London) on 15 May 1910, at which time the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster. Although not originally derived from Irish writings, versions of this sermon have been used at many Irish and Catholic funerals over the years.

Unseen, in the background, Fate was quietly slipping the lead into the boxing glove.

by fogiv on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:24:37 PM EST

Good dad, good son and straight shooter. (2.00 / 1)

He will be missed.

Donate!

by chrisblask on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:28:53 PM EST

WOW (2.00 / 1)

I can't believe it.

So sudden.

by Al Depansu on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:31:24 PM EST

this song.... (2.00 / 2)

seems somewhat appropriate, just because its so damn beautiful; it might cheer some of you up;

lemon716, mydd's little lemon drop;

by alyssa chaos on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:32:03 PM EST

Re: this song.... (2.00 / 2)

It's a fitting death meditation for the indie rock generation. Rest in peace, Tim.

[ Donate to Barack Obama ]

by semiquaver on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:06:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Church of Russert (2.00 / 2)

My partner and I joked each every Sunday morning that we were worshiping at the Church of Russert. Though we didn't always agreed with him, but he was amazing at getting America to discuss the important issues in the nation and around the world.

This is awful.

My thoughts are with him and I am eternally in awe of his intellect and reputation as one of the few great people who were left in the main stream media.

by brooklynboi on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:34:38 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

Tim was the reason I went to late Mass on Sundays.

I wasn't always crazy about him, but he was good at his job and had a warmth unlike any.

A class act. They're arent too many left.

Republican or Democrat, he was an American, and a proud one at that.

John McCain: Four More Years of Failure.

by dannybauder on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:37:39 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (1.00 / 3)

John McCain got the first statement out - quite an extensive one.

Nothing from Obama yet. This, from a p/r perspective could've been an advantage for the party since Russert was associated with the party & much positivity will be paid to him. However the GOP were able to get out there first - that is something the Obama campaign is going to need to examine. They cannot be behind in getting out their statements & marrying themselves to things publicly.

by jrsygrl on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:38:13 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I heard Obama's staement first (read by David Gregory), and thought it both touching and tasteful. I have yet to see coverage of any McCain statement. Gregory did mention that McCain had issued one, but that was it.

Unseen, in the background, Fate was quietly slipping the lead into the boxing glove.

by fogiv on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:50:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

Who cares who is first. We aren't talking about the opening comment on a blog here.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:00:34 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (1.33 / 3)

It is ALWAYS important in a political campaign to set the tone & be the first to release a statement. It is indicative of the fact that his team NEEDS to be quicker to act.

Anyway I had CNN on & they read McCain's statement & said they were sure Obama would be releasing one sometime soon. I have since heard it. Obama mentioning that he has known him sinc2 2004 was a mistake - it highlights how new he is to politics. He also really needs to work on getting rid of his filler statements (the uhs & umms). That is very bad public speaking form & seriously bugs. If one of his skills is oration this needs to be corrected, especially when his newness & lack of certainty will be put into question. This is politics - these things are important.

by jrsygrl on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:41:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

Jrsygirl I hope you sleep well tonite.

You are concern trolling by hoping onto the dead body of a man that is still warm.

You think America gives a fuck if Obama talked first, do you think in that stomach twisting moment they thought about the HORSE RACE.

If you are not trolling then think a little harder and realize although we are political junkies, we are not animals.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:55:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

you are totally out of line, jrsygrl (none / 0)

by YuedoTiko on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:47:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: you are totally out of line, jrsygrl (1.00 / 2)

EXCUSE ME EXACTLY WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE telling me I am out of line???? Why not concentrate on the substance of what I am discussing? Further if you review the thread I FIRST commented on my shock re: his death & admiration for his ability. Then upon watching the coverage later I noticed something that might be of issue for the party - the bottom line is if you don't realize that responses to things like this is a part of politics then you are in another world.

by jrsygrl on Sat Jun 14, 2008 at 12:41:26 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: you are totally out of line, jrsygrl (none / 0)

Instead of reading what I wrote you troll rate me? I have been verbally abused in this thread & I DID NOT resort to troll rating at all! Instead I attempted to discuss the issue like an adult. WTF???!!

by jrsygrl on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 12:03:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

you are in a hole. best to stop digging. (none / 0)

There is plainly no issue to be discussed here.

Russert's death was devastating and unexpected -- and completely apolitical.

And yet, you have found this thread to be an appropriate time to call to our attention -- as an "issue for the party" no less! -- your urgent observation that the condolence statements of the two candidates were eight minutes apart.

And you are shocked (CAPTIAL LETTERS SHOCKED!) that members of a progressive community have reacted with disapproval and disgust to your comment, and with disdain and indifference to your repeated attempts at defending yourself.

You speak repeatedly in this thread about the perceived naiveté of others, and with great confidence about the helpfulness and savvy of your own political observations.

One need not be a great guru of politics to realize that the only consideration for a political campaign in responding to a tragic non-political occurrence is meticulous care that nothing be said that might in any way be read as a politicization of the event.

Concern trolling happens to be the most unpleasant way to politicize anything, and substantively inane concern trolling, the most pathetic.

And so I repeat and reiterate: you have been, and continue to be, totally out of line.

by YuedoTiko on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 07:34:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: you are in a hole. best to stop digging. (none / 0)

I'm out of line but yet I have not swore & called people names?! I am defending myself against repeated and uncalled for insults against my character & my person. In fact it has been downright abusive & that is what is out of line, not me having the audacity to discuss a point. That type of behavior, involving personal insults, name calling & verbal abuse should have no place on this blog - it is behavior I do not engage in & I expect the same courtesy in return. I also expect that progressive, intelligent individuals would reject such behavior. I am not out of line to objecting to that.

I have in no way shape or form said anything to disparage the man's memory; in fact I've done just the opposite and the fact that nobody is willing to take a good hard look at the fact that I am expressing something I see as an issue for the campaign (there is a reason that statements are rushed the way there are) which needs to be corrected ASAP is neither trollish or negative; constructive evaluation, in fact, is very positive.

My capital letters reflect my outrage in response to the fact that people who are supposed to be progressive are engaging in downright verbal abuse & I am truly, personally insulted. Further, I still did not respond in kind, while this behavior was seemingly supported. It is one thing to disagree with my point; it is another thing to verbally abuse somebody in lieu of respectful discourse. I did nothing to invite that but I cannot allow it to go on without defending myself.

by jrsygrl on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 08:12:56 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: you are in a hole. best to stop digging. (none / 0)

Personal insults and name-calling are usually unhelpful, yes. (Your swearing and personal attacking in this thread frankly do not bother me much -- but then again, I know most people here have pretty thick skin.)

Verbal abuse is, of course, always completely unacceptable (and an accusation that a progressive should never make lightly).

But verbal abuse not the only way to be out of line in our community.

Concern trolling is also inappropriate here. And concern trolling regarding the particulars of our candidate's condolence statement in a condolence thread is so craven and, yes, thoughtless, that I cannot see how you are so surprised at our disgust.

by YuedoTiko on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 08:40:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

BTW... (none / 0)

...you have our thanks, on behalf of party, country and the progressive cause, for those little extras dissecting Senator Obama's oration; we'll all be sure to forward these profundities along to David Plouffe immediately.

by YuedoTiko on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 07:43:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: BTW... (1.00 / 1)

These aren't little extras, they are big issues that would be addressed as early as in an introductory speaking class. Further, given the high level of praise that has been paid to Obama's oratory skills, expectations have now been set high; when he does things like that it is not impressive & the general public will walk away feeling dissatisfied b/c their expectation was to hear a great speaker; instead they heard someone speak who sounded very everyday. I have the right to discuss what could be a problem, on top of noticing a potential timing issue when it comes to release of statements. Everything can have an impact & these two areas are very important.

by jrsygrl on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 08:16:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: BTW... (1.00 / 1)

This is concern trolling. And, as noted, substantively inane concern trolling at that.

No one is contesting your legal right to push the "Post" button with these trollish observations.

We just repeatedly assert that, as has always been asserted, that they have no place on this site.

by YuedoTiko on Sun Jun 15, 2008 at 08:50:20 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: BTW... (none / 0)

What is concern trolling? Having the audacity to voice an issue that might exist? I am asserting that on a blog in which I am posting with other members of the same party I should be able to post legitimate issues to spark a conversation regarding resolution without being considered a troll. There is nothing wrong with stating concerns - it is constructive which I thought was part of the point of the blog. I don't believe in holding my hands over my ears while only thinking positive thoughts is smart or helpful. So to troll rate me for raising substantive issues, in an attempt to censure me, is not conducive to positive discourse whatsoever. And I thought that was why we were all here.

by jrsygrl on Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 12:35:41 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: BTW... (none / 0)

And the issues I have posted are hardly inane; just b/c it points out a possible issue that doesn't want to be thought about or someone doesn't understand the implications of does not make it inane. And to degrade everyone else's thoughts that make you feel uncomfortable because of one of the two options above is not constructive or progressive.

by jrsygrl on Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 12:37:28 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Yup -- completely inane (none / 0)

That "UMing and AHing" garbage is an absurd GOP/deadender meme that, rightfully, never got legs. It is widely known that:

--most prominent public figures use some filler words when speaking extemporanously; and

--most audiences tend to notice only when intentionally listening for them.

As far as the question of concern trolling:

Republican memes raised by a commentator that as yet has not decided whether to vote for the Democratic candidate = textbook concern trolling

Enough is enough.

by YuedoTiko on Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 03:01:45 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yup -- completely inane (none / 0)

I have NEVER heard it as a Republican meme whatsoever & I am doubtful that it is. It isn't something that could be used as a marketing issue - it is just something that creates an overall impression. I usually don't like to get specific regarding myself, however I am a trained public speaker (several years of education) and the filler words are a major issue that is dealt with in the most elementary of courses. The reason being is that it creates doubt as to the credibility of the speaker & it also loses people in the formation of the speech. Given that Obama is being lauded as a great orator this becomes an even bigger issue that I am surprised was not dealt with a long time ago. It is an easy fix which should be expedited period.

Secondly - I have ALWAYS campaigned with the party & like many in my party am not happy with the final selection. In the end as I have written before, I will probably vote for Obama. However to ignore potential issues on this blog is ridiculous. Finally I read a whole blog on what concern trolling is - it is a poster who is a Republican bringing up issues to subtly create doubt; it is NOT a poster who is bringing up issues for constructive reasons, nor does someone who has continuously been a member of the party deserve to be castigated as such.

by jrsygrl on Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 11:18:46 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Totally inappropriate. (1.00 / 3)

This is no place for that kind of bitter dead-ender vitriol.

by spunkmeyer on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 06:05:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Totally inappropriate. (1.00 / 2)

There is nothing bitter or vitriolic about what I posted.

by jrsygrl on Sat Jun 14, 2008 at 12:41:48 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

Just found out from the NYTimes front page. We are lesser because of his loss.

by Blue387 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:38:44 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 3)

I'm very very sad. He was my favourite. I'm truly sorry to his family. Very tragic.

Why the good always go. Why couldn't this be O'Reilly or Rush.

Why Russert??

by Makey on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:40:34 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

My Father, who's 5 years older than Russert, called me minutes after the news broke.

He said, "It's a tragedy, he was just a kid. What's worse is that Hannity will live to be a hundred and never shut up".

Unseen, in the background, Fate was quietly slipping the lead into the boxing glove.

by fogiv on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:54:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

Even Hannity had very deep words on Mr. Russert's passing. I heard about it when I got in the car and turned on talk radio. Tim had donated $10K to a college fund Hannity setup - and asked that it be anonymous.

If we are able to show respect for Mr. Russert I think we will find it in understanding - as I believe he did - that our hostility towards and divisions from each other is overstated in our words.

Donate!

by chrisblask on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:21:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

True enough.

Unseen, in the background, Fate was quietly slipping the lead into the boxing glove.

by fogiv on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:37:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I still can't get over the absolutely disgusting things that the hillaryis44.org people are saying about this.

# rjk1957 Says:
June 13th, 2008 at 4:16 pm

Admin, I will not be polite... Karma baby that is all I will say, first Kennedy and his brain tumor, then the flooding in Iowa and now Russert... Obamatrons beware the wrath of God, you could be next

by heyhellowhatsnew on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:45:02 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Disgusting.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:48:21 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Even more reason that we bury those people.
They are Un-American and I can't see the difference between their mentality and that of Bin Laden or Adolf Hitler or Pastor Hagee.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:54:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I'm just content to call them what they are. Republicans.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:02:08 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I feel we should report RJK1957 to the Secret Service.

He has threatened the death of the Obama family later in this thread.

I think it is high time that the admin of this site condemn these anti-american violent sites.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:02:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Maybe O'Reilly can give you tips on how to do that?

by jrsygrl on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:45:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Please leave their slop over there. Thanks.

Let's elect a Dem President!

by SpanishFly on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:08:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Yeah, super classy over there. This from the same user, in the same thread:

rjk1957 Says:

June 13th, 2008 at 4:33 pm

Now if only Barack and Michelle would both choke on turkey sandwiches...

Unseen, in the background, Fate was quietly slipping the lead into the boxing glove.

by fogiv on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:11:48 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

It's all class. Everyone should save the webpage of that thread on their computer. Next time one of them wants to pretend their site and cause is credible, we need to remind them of their words. Just like Russert would have done.

If you're being chased by an angry bull and then you notice you're also being chased by a swarm of bees, it doesn't really change things. Just keep on running.

by vcalzone on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 06:11:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

He would indeed. Good call.

by conspiracy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 06:16:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Those fucking assholes--the admin too, who is almost worse than the commenters. You know something is seriously wrong over there when Michelle Malkin and LGF commenters are being nicer than hi44.

Stop the racism. Fight the smears.

by CrazyDrumGuy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 07:40:02 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 1)

What a shock...I am in total loss for words...Mr. Russert you will be sorely missed, thank you for all you have done in your lifetime.

A useless "Community Organizer" from Pennsylvania as noted by Republicans, Rudy Giuliani and Sarah Palin

by hootie4170 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 04:53:05 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (2.00 / 2)

Tim Russert was my favorite political analyst by far. He wasn't perfect of course, but he was much better than the rest. I will miss him on Meet the Press. And I will miss his election night whiteboard..."Florida, Florida, Florida" in 2000. I am sad he never got to see the Bills take the Super Bowl!

by gorebeatbush2 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:08:18 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

After my sadness for his family I am sad for him that he will not get to see America progress after 8 years of political turmoil in America.

I honestly saw a different Tim this election, he always seemed so happy and excited, and it was so authentic.

He will be missed.

http://www.truepat.org/

by CrushTheGOP2008 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:27:40 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Yeah I had really wanted to hear his predictions re: how the states would fall out & what would be the big decider - since his analysis was usually quite right on.

by jrsygrl on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:46:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

politics, journalism aside (2.00 / 2)

He emanated a zest for life that few people I have ever known (even from afar) have ever had. I think it is the saddest when those people with such life die young. He lived his life like everybody hopes to live theirs.

by ab03 on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:10:08 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

God bless Him and his family this is so sad!

by nzubechukwu on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:32:16 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Most of the MSNBC line up has made an appearance thus far with the very notable exception of Chris Matthews. I have a hunch Chris is too distraught for the camera right now. Already several other staff have struggled visibly just to maintain composure. Matthews and Russert seemed to be two peas in a pod anytime they appeared on camera together. I know a lot of people don't feel very kindly to Mathews these days, but I imagine this is a tough tough day for him.

by tessellated on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:37:49 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I'm no fan of Matthews myself, but I agree with your assessment that this news is probably hitting him pretty hard on a personal level. However, the reason he didn't appear today is because he is in Paris on vacation with his family... he did get called and called in to talk on the air about what it meant to him. He was quite distraught. It was sad watching the talking heads today, particularly at MSNBC, as you could visibly tell how shaken some of them were. It was painfully obvious that Olbermann had been crying and at times was struggling to hold himself together; the same could be said for Andrea Mitchell and David Gregory. Chuck Todd seemed absolutely devastated, like a kid who just lost his dad.

by Obamaphile on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 11:20:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I did see later that Matthews was in Paris. I guess he was asleep when the story broke.

I agree completely with your assessment of the various staff at MSNBC. It was quite obvious they were taking the loss quite personally. Tim obviously had a real connection with his co-workers.

by tessellated on Sat Jun 14, 2008 at 02:43:50 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

Tim Russert was the absolute master of the technique of forcing politicians to confront their own words on the screen. I wish he had been slightly more aggressive in his follow-ups when he really nailed the politicians, but that's a small qualm.

Russert was an icon; I miss him already.

John McCain the flip-flopper...

by chinapaulo on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 05:43:57 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

by spunkmeyer on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 06:04:29 PM EST

Tim Russert Dead (none / 0)

pulmonary embolism--not a heart attack.

Doris Kearns Goodwin on MSNBC now--she has clearly been crying.

Politics is like driving. To go backward, put it in R. To go forward, put it in D.

by TrueBlueMajority on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 06:18:00 PM EST

This is just so shocking (none / 0)

and terribly sad. I have spent many a Sunday morning with Tim Russert. During primary night coverage, if I had the sound muted, I'd always turn it up when Tim came on the screen. He always had something worthwhile to say. I will never forget the white board in 2000.

I will miss him tremendously watching the election returns in November. He had such an obvious passion for what he did, and took such joy in it.

He will truly be missed. My heart goes out to his wife and son.

by jadegirl on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 07:12:58 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

_____________
changiness

by lizardbox on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 07:22:52 PM EST

Such a shame (none / 0)

Chuck Todd's emotional response is worth watching:

Stop the racism. Fight the smears.

by CrazyDrumGuy on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 07:29:52 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

A sad and terrible day for our country's media. Tim Russert was one of the best and he will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies to his wife Maureen and son Luke. Thank you for all of your work Mr Russert. Ed Murrow will be waiting for you at the gates to shake your hand.

by celtic pride on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 08:05:55 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

58 is too damn young.

My father, now 69, had a triple bypass last year. Apparently, the doctors found that his heart had been scarred by at least one previous heart attack. He hadn't even known it!

One thing for sure, I'm getting that fasting blood work I've been putting off first thing on Monday. This hits too close to home.

R.I.P., Tim. I didn't always agree with you, but you got taken too soon. Condolences to his family.

by Captain Bathrobe on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 08:13:50 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I can't believe this. So young, so much left to do.

My best wishes to his family.

by liberalj on Fri Jun 13, 2008 at 08:37:53 PM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I deeply regret the death of the man, but recalling his gotcha style of journalism and particularly the sharp, arrogant questioning of Hillary in the primary debate that did much damage to her, I hope that his style of DC journalism passes with him.

Russert in fact was the paradigm for everything wrong with DC political journalism.

by Bob H on Sat Jun 14, 2008 at 09:27:44 AM EST

Re: Tim Russert Dead Of Apparent Heart Attack (none / 0)

I wasn't always crazy about him, but he was good at his job and had a warmth unlike any.

A class act. They're arent too many left.

Flashlights rc heli videogame

by blueskyadf on Sat Jun 21, 2008 at 04:41:36 AM EST

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