Tim Russert, moderator of “Meet the Press” has died from an apparent heart attack at the age of 58. Russert and I shared the same birthday – May 7 – although ten years apart. On those rare Sunday mornings when I managed to get up early, it was Russert’s show that I watched.
Senator Jim Webb issued the following statement:
I am stunned and saddened by Tim Russert’s sudden passing. I have always had the utmost respect for his dedication and contributions to the open air of free debate that so defines our system. I will miss him greatly.
DNC Chairman Howard Dean issued the following statement:
Today we lost one of the true giants of American journalism and a tremendous public servant. Tim Russert will be remembered for many things. A committed family man, devout Catholic, devout sports fan, author, mentor. A tough interviewer, Tim delivered the news with authority, in a plain-spoken way that made the great issues of our day accessible to everyone. His love of politics and our country came through in his relentless pursuit of the truth and in the quality of his work as a journalist. On this sad day, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
My thoughts and prayers are with Russert’s family at this difficult time.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
I am stunned and saddened.
I met Mr. Russert in January 2000 in Des Moines.
He came into our campaign office, my desk was near the front and he was looking at all the campaign buttons on my wall. He told me that his son Luke was a huge fan of our candidate and I gave him a few of my buttons.
He was with Tom Brokaw and I have to say, those two gentleman were very pleasant and personable.
This was 1 week before the caucus so our HQ was packed. They were mobbed by staff, interns, and volunteers but took the time to speak with each person, sign autographs, et. He chatted a long time with one of our staff members from Buffalo. She was so happy to speak with someone from home.
We have truly lost a class act. My heart breaks for his son on losing his father on father’s day weekend. This is a sad day. His familiy is in my prayers.
My Sunday mornings will never be the same. I go to Mass when Meet the Press was on so I TiVo’d the show. I would always come home watch the show while reading the paper.
I was at an event with Jim Webb tonight and he was signing his book that I had brought.
I said that it was so sad of Russert’s passing. Jim said he was the last interview that Russert did and he was truly devestated.
A sad time for our country.
His family is in my prayers.
“I truly miss Tim Russert! He was prepared, thotough and straightforward.
A hugh loss. I had a picture taken with him at the Boston 2004 Convention. He was a giant in his business. He could make or break a politician by his line of questioning. I think the made them better because he never let them by with the easy questions. I don’t know who can come close to him.