NEWS: JOURNALIST TIM RUSSERT DIES / OBAMA UPDATE
Friday, June 13, 2008
“Meet the Press” host and NBC News’ Washington bureau chief Tim Russert died Friday afternoon after collapsing at the bureau while recording voiceovers for Sunday’s show. He was 58.
Former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw came on the air around 3:40 p.m. and reported the news.
This was one of the most important years of Russert’s life, Brokaw said, with his deep engagement in the network’s political coverage. “He worked to the point of exhaustion.”
Russert had just returned from Italy with his wife, writer Maureen Orth, and son, Luke, to celebrate his son’s recent graduation.
OBAMA UPDATE

On Friday, Michelle Obama regaled residents of the Oakleaf Village retirement home in Columbus, Ohio with stories of how her mother, “an active 70-year-old who does yoga,” treats her granddaughters, Sasha and Malia, “like queens” and how her parents were more strict with her growing up.
Shortly after, she praised and introduced her husband as a leader, as a man, as a father and as “the next president of the United States.”
When Sen. Barack Obama stepped up to the podium, he had a similar story to tell: “She never says such nice things about me at home! I really enjoy listening to her praise me like that because when I get home she’ll remind me that I didn’t make the bed.”
The Obama campaign wants America to know this Michelle Obama, and not the one conservatives are trying to introduce: “Mrs. Grievance“, “His Bitter Half” or even “Barack’s Baby Mama“, as Fox News recently identified her.
To combat misinformation, half-truths and blatant lies, fightthesmears.com was launched recently.
“The Obama campaign isn’t going to let dishonest smears spread across the internet unanswered,” explained campaign spokesman Tommy Vietor. “Whenever challenged with these lies we will aggressively push back with the truth and help our supporters debunk the false rumors floating around the internet.”









59 Comments
1.
lelee
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
love these people!!
2.
NuAgenda77
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
May he rest in peace.
3.
LoopyLoop
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
Dang, I can’t believe the news about Tim. I used to watch his shows sometimes
The First Family gotta luv them fo’real.
Side Note: I can’t believe they’re tryna compare Michelle to McCain’s bobble headed wife. I mean they made up a degree for her to make her sound good. Don’t compare the two it’s just laughable.
4.
keishe
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I got so much love for Obama and his family.
I’m so shocked to hear about Tim Rus. dying. I always watched his show.
5.
silly_rabbit
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I’m so sad about Tim Russert because he was from my hometown of Buffalo and my little brother goes to the high school he graduated from. I read his book, “Big Russ and Me”, last year and I really enjoyed it. This really shocks me and what a loss this is. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
RIP Tim Russert.
6.
silly_rabbit
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
His son’s name is Luke by the way.
7.
kelis
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
Just lost Mr. and Mrs. President Elect! Love them.
Sorry to hear about Tim Russet.
8.
Bahamas for Obama
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I am in shock over the news of Tim Russert’s passing. To watch him in action was always a treat. Very few journalists can conduct an interview on the level he did. He never made his audience feel that he had an ulterior motive in questioning his guests, other than he just wanted to get to the truth. I will miss him, especially because this is such an important election season and it won’t be the same without him.
Michell and Barack rock! I live in the Bahamas and you would be amazed to see how people love them over here. We always take interest in US politics because we’re right next door and our economy is strongly tied to what is going on there. We love what we see in Obama and I think most of the Caribbean and even the worl are looking forward to his presidency.
Bahamas for Obama!
9.
ThatGirlLinda
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
RIP- To Tim Russert.
That is a shame that Obama had to establish a website to refute rumors about himself or his wife.
** BTW what took so long to post the story?**
10.
Catie
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
RIP Tim Russert..
i absolutely love seeing the OBamas together … people are just hating
11.
ALLIHAVETOSAYIS...
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
Tim Russert was truly an asset to the media. I’ve watched a lot of journalists and a lot of times you always had a sense of which way they were leaning - but Tim Russert was different. I found myself looking forward to his political commentary b/c he was always so fair and balanced. His was the hallmark of true reporting. It just won’t be the same w/o him, especially w/ the upcoming political season. This is just incredibly sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
12.
Have Not Thought of a New User Name
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I am a Radio/Television Broadcast major, so when I heard Tim Russet passed I was like, NO! I really liked him. My prayers are with his family.
I wish Barack Obama would tour the area’s that he is not likely to win just so he can put a dent in the percentage points he looses by, he will most likely win Columbus, Ohio.
Obama 08′
13.
samplethis
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
That sucks about Tim Russert. The family is in my prayers, He enabled me to understand politics a lot better. I also enjoyed the book.
He will be missed.
14.
M. DOT
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
Michelle Obama is really pretty. RIP Mr. Russert.
15.
stark-vegas
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
i always respected tim russert for his superb and accurrate journalism. r.i.p.
16.
ahsatar
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I’m so sad to hear about Tim’s death, I watched his show sometimes too, he wasnt biased, he did his job which isnt what most of the media do these days. For that he will truly be missed. RIP.(CL I think its nice of you guys to recognize a great journalist on your website, even though he isnt black)
The Obama’s have my vote..I cant wait till Nov 4.
17.
Ion Care(kids stay in school or others wont r-e-s-p-e, respect you!!!!)
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
michelle and obama are the most beautiful black couple i have ever seen!! she is really pretty in this pic
18.
stark-vegas
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
i always respected tim russert for his superb and accurate journalism. r.i.p.
19.
QuestionEverything
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
So sad to hear about Mr Russert! I always enjoyed watching him. He truly seemed like such a genuine person! Thankfully he was able to see his son graduate. My prayers are with the Russert family.
The Republicans are on a full attack for Michelle Obama. They know that is the one subject that will affect Barack the most. This race will be so ugly.
20.
Prima Donna
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
I still can’t believe Fox News called Michelle Obama Barachs “Baby momma” that was just shocking. I think Obama and his wife are a beautiful couple and I do hope he wins this election!
21.
SassyT
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
My condolences to Tim Russert’s family and friends. The media truly lost the best in the business. RIP Tim.
I love the Obamas!
22.
augusta
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
my condolences go out to tim russert’s family
23.
prettylady818
Friday, June 13, 2008 /
They are going to make a beautiful first family.
24.
EBZ01
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TIM :(…..I really like meet the press…..i’m sad as hell right now. Cool dude dies but a perv lives. -_o …. something is wrong in the universe.
Those conservatives can suck a mean one…… much respect to the Obamas.
25.
Ugly
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
R.I.P. Mr. Russert, it’s sad when the good ones go….m prayers go out to his family and friends.
26.
MissEnvied
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
When my mom mentioned his passing I couldn’t put a name w/a face but shortly after I saw a photo and it all clicked. I feel like he’s been one of the leading non-bias contributors during this political race and his untimely death is unfortunate. My prayers to his family~
27.
Taji
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
So sorry to hear about Tim Russert especially since he just had a great experience with his son’s graduation and then to pass so suddenly.
28.
icon
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
barack’s baby mama?!?! wtheck….fox news is beginning to piss me off!
29.
linda
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
so sad to hear about tim. he is in a better place. my heart goes out to his family. he is a angel for sure. he was one of the most fairest men when it came to reporting the truth in politics in all. never saw color just people. he will truly be missed. he left us much to soon, but to the family he is okay now you will hurt a part of your heart no one can ever fill god knows that. but he took the best once again to tell us to get it together. we love you tim and your family will find peace until they see you again. keep the faith his spirit is in all of you.
30.
Staci
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
RIP Tim Russert
31.
Nikki
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Rest in Peace Tim Russert. I will always remember you being a real reporter. God bless his family and friends.
32.
Terry
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Thank you Tim Russert… in addition to being one of the few remaining GOOD journalists, you were a shining example of never forgetting where you came from. I’m proud to say I’m from Buffalo, in part due to your lead.
Rest in peace… and go Bills.
33.
fiffj1234
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Fox news is disgusting. They are being racist by referring to Mrs. Obama with the derogatory reference as “Barack’s Baby Momma” Why is it that the same reference was not used for McCains wife of Bush’s wife? It was used because it is a phrase used in the black community because we had so many single parents. Yep, they were being sarcastically racist. Not watching Fox any more and will be making a phone call!
34.
fiffj1234
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
They are trying to say that its okay for them to say it because Mrs Obama, referred to Obama as her baby daddy. Using her own words against her. We all know that she was saying it with a much different intent than Fox news. Michelle probably said it in an effort to be “down” and as a joke. Unfortunately she is going to be a target regardless as longs as she speaks, no matter what. May have to get a speech writer or edit her remarks beforehand to lessen her comments coming back to hurt her ,at least while Obama is fighting McCain. It looks like most of her comments are impromptu. Would not be suprised if McCain’s camp is behind this. Make your voice known, Call Fox news at 1-888-369-4762 and 212-301-3000!!!!!
35.
Carla
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
i was so shocked and sad to hear Tim Russert had died. i was so use to seeing his face on the news covering the election. not saying theres anything wrong with hard work, but we gotta relax a little and start taking better care of ourselves.
OBAMA 08!
36.
Crystal
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I feel so sad ,because I was watching “Meet The Press” last Sunday ,and this feeling came over me that something was’nt right with Tim he just did’nt look good to me in a helthy way.I don’t consider myself psychic ,but I just could’nt put my finger on what I was feeling,but now I know.My prayers are with his family,and may Tim rest in peace.
37.
Sharonda
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I love the tribute they done for him.It was one of the most heartfelt moments when he was talking about his dad and refered him to Big Rus.My parents are heavy on politics and they use to watch him every Sunday morning.I sometimes too.The weekend of Father’s day.Hmm, just never know what was going to happen.Last time I watch Tim is when he was talking about the Obama being the presumptive noiminee for the democrat party which I think was last week.May he rest in peace.
Good for the Obamas!They mean well.
38.
Holleywood
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Thanks J. Dakar for being on point with letting us know about this. So sad.
39.
Mrs. Not Me
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I’m done with Fox News permanently!
40.
TheLoveJones
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
The news of Tim Russert’s passing is very depressing for me. Before going to church, Meet the Press was my show to watch while I ate breakfast. I believe he was one of the few journalists who was unbiased and not afraid to ask the tough questions that I needed the answers. May he rest in peace.
For as the Obamas, I hope that they continue to perservere and rise up from the muck that politics can bring. It’s a shame and quite telling that they have to literally create a website but you do what you to have to take the high road and keep your eyes on the prize.
41.
UrbanChick
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Now, I’m looking for our “feminists.” It is amazing how the feminists screamed about Hillary, the label, “baby’s mama,” is meant to be derogatory. It not only insults black women, but it is meant to insult single motherhood, a feminist issue. Where are the feminists who claim to care about the state of black America?
42.
UrbanChick
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
Secondly, many of you know I have a bad habit of double posts. Yes, Michelle may have referred to herself as “baby’s mama,” but let me throw a similar situation at you. Former President Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy, use to refer to each other as Mama and Papa. Now, would I be out of line to refer to them as Mama and Papa on a news broadcast, YES. Fox News understood what they were doing, and yes, please call the number, and express your dismay.
I will definitely miss Tim Russert because he did not participate in politics as usual such as this. He will be missed. God Bless.
43.
judasgoat
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
if i could i would let team obama know [my two cents]. that for mccain to call him out, about the ” townhall debates” is nothing but a trap. the republican strategists have already stated that they are going to get real dirty. its from the school of “lee atwater” they are going to the book of dirty politics. it will be like a cross-fire at them townhall meetings. the blake blakemans and the sean [sharon] hannitys and right-wing talk radio. will have barack doing nothing but explaining and being in the defensive mode . its designed to get you off point and have you on your heels. the model of the nixon-kennedy debates would be just fine. team obama must be in a overtime creative mode mentality, it must be a tit for tat response to the mud-slinging thats coming your way. get you a team of dirt diggers like the clintons had for a rapid response. example; rev. wright well how about rev. hagee . and about my past assoications what about yours mccain mr. S&L loan pirate. and compare it now [the world ] to what was going then, the key is in the past ,cause they are sure using your past . it is sad that the majority white /cacuasian male has never backed a blackman or a democrat its the republican blood that flows though their vains. so team obama must direct their attention to the others. after the democratic convention your TOUR BUS needs a makeover and it should reflect the people who you are trying to reach. on the bus should be DECALS of what team obama consists of ; and that is the broad spectrum of americas. male/female-indian- white-black-asian- people [ok lateeno’s] and others who are america. the steel worker, the nurse, just a collage of folks who you will try and touch and let them know you are a friend and you are for change. LAST but not least the bush bashing just ain’t going to cut it now . right or wrong white folks hate to hear critisim of their own in this time of war, IT IS A SENSITIVE area it doesn’t matter that this president has ran this country in the ground,the people still take offence to it. secrectly its called patriotism . so refer to the situation, or [bush] as; the past ‘policy’ or the politics of the past admin. or the past way of doing things. bush is a third party [person] now and regardless of what he did we are at war and to hammer on him continuously by name will rile and turn off people. their are people [the republican strategists] who know THAT IF THEY CONTINUE TO HAMMER AWAY AT YOU. THAT MENTALLY; THEY ARE HOPING YOU WILL BREAK OR MAKE CAMPAIGN BLUNDERS thats why they ARE coming after you and wife to weaken you and get you where it hurts . you are under pressure DON’T LET THEM foxnews , sharon hannity etc….. break you. oh ya forgive my diatribe. and take a break pull back till after the convention please I’AM BEGGING YOU.
44.
Dame
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I watch Meet The Press often and I am sadden by Mr. Russert passing. My prayers to his family.
45.
mizz E
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
This is such sad news for the journalism community and the nation. Tim Russert was a much needed voice of objectivity during this historic presidential election. All of the big time political figures and analysts were on his show each Sunday morning. It’s sad that he won’t get to see history unfold in November, but he was still a big part of it. I’m glad he died after spending good quality time with his family and while doing what he loved best - reporting. R.I.P.
If yall don’t know about Tim Russert, you aren’t paying attention to this election campaign. Do your part and stay abreast of current events so you can make your own informed decisions.
Concrete Loop - Keep up the political posts … even after November. Much love!
46.
CGJ
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
No idea who Tim Russert is. I don’t watch much TV.
It’s a shame that a website has to be launched to dispell the rumors - the sad world we live in. At least the Obama campaign is staking a proactive approach - gotta love it! Our government definitely needs someone who is going to be proactive and not reactive in situations.
Obama ‘08 - Let’s Get It!
47.
Kim
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
the reason whyI love to visit this site is because the information is so diverse and covers a very broad cross section of the world well live in. keep up the good work.
48.
AriesRme
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I like Tim he was very to the point and his interviews with canidiates often made them really uncomfortable which to me showcases how they will do under pressure and scrutiny. Condolences to his family..
Love the Dream Team…only people greatly in fear of their competitors resort to rumors. GOO!! Obama
…and as much dirt as McCain-big bank scandal in the 70-80 and his wife addicted to pain killers writing her own prescriptions they need to stop.
49.
MEKKAH74
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
I was shocked when I heard Tim Russert passed. My deepest condolences to his family. It won’t be the same to turn to NBC on Sunday mornings and not see him there.
Barack & Michelle look great!
Cindy McCain (who looked a lot better rockin a short haircut years ago) can’t hold a candle to Michelle Obama.
I would like to see the two ladies have a debate on the issues! That would be interesting.
50.
kaykay
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
THis was so sad. i loved tim russert and the joy he got out of reporting,not to mention his close bond w/his son. i’m glad CL covered his unexpected death.
51.
CoCo Chanel
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
i was suprised that Tim Russell died. i liked that man when i watched the news.
and i love the Obamas… its time for a change! but i hate how the media goes after them and all.
52.
Tosha
Saturday, June 14, 2008 /
So sad about Tim Russert. I watched “Meet the Press” often. He truly was an upstanding man. Always fair, Always accurate. He’ll be missed.
Love the Obamas. And there is no comparison between Michelle O and McCain’s wife. PLEASE!!
53.
dukesman2000
Monday, June 16, 2008 /
RIP Tim…Sunday mornings will not be the same without you. Thank you for all the memories…I know politics because of you.
Michelle Obama is one powerful black women. The new “First Lady”
54.
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[…] sudden passing of Tim Russert has everyone talking. The “Meet the Press” host died Friday afternoon while recording […]
55.
2Cent
Monday, June 16, 2008 /
RIP Tim Russert…I can’t imagine how his family feels; Friday the 13th and two days before Father’s Day. He was the epitome of “fair and balanced”. He will truly be missed.
56.
C Brown
Monday, June 16, 2008 /
Tim you will be missed….you were one of the good ones. You did your job exceptionally well…and it won’t be the same without you.
57.
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