Although I didn’t watch his program every week, I definitely appreciate Tim Russert’s contribution to journalism. He was a breath of fresh air. He was never afraid to ask the tough questions and never afraid to hold politicians’ feet to the fire. Without question he stands as one of the best journalists of our time.
In an age where 24-hour cable news stations have reduced journalism to entertainment and partisanship, Tim Russert stayed true to the original rules of the game: he was objective, fair and he spoke truth to power. He was a rare find in media. With his passing (and that of Ed Bradley’s a couple of years ago) journalism has suffered a devestating blow.
Instead of letting Russert’s legacy become a distant memory once he is laid to rest and the shock of his death fades away, I hope that, journalists decide to aim for a new standard of excellence. I hope that Russert’s death will be remind us that being a reporter is about more than being seen as “cute” or “sexy” or being caricatured as a “loud-mouthed” talking head. That’s not what this business is all about.
Journalists must turn away from the lure of celebrity that this “modern day” form of journalism brings. Reporters are supposed to serve as the chief inquisitors of those and power, not serve as mouthpieces for the government. We media professionals have a tremendous responsibility to viewers, listeners and readers all over the globe to get answers to society’s most pressing questions. Tim Russert’s legacy should remind us all of that.
Thank you Tim Russert, for serving as a shining example of what a real journalist is supposed to be. As I continue to grow as a media professional, I can only hope to be as dynamic and unwavering as you. Each time I step on to a television set, I will remember that I stand on the shoulders of the few journalists who made a difference in this business and the world, much like Ed Bradley and you.
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1 Comment
June 19, 2008 at 3:14 pm
I agree with your comments on Tim Russert. I watched or taped his show for viewing later, every Sunday. Tim was a journalist you could count on to be thorough, fair and honest. He did the necessary research to be a credible interviewer. I really hate that he will not be here for this historic presidential campaign. What a loss to the media and the listening public.