The Nation Reacts to Russert's Death

"Tim Russert's death is not just a body blow for NBC News, it is a body blow for the nation and for anyone who cherishes newsmen and women who have remained devoted to reporting hard news in an era increasingly consumed by trivia."
— Rep. Dave Obey, D-Wis.

"Tim asked the tough questions the right way and was the best in the business at keeping his interview subjects honest."
— Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev.

"Tim was one of the outstanding journalists of this generation. He had a well earned reputation for integrity and fairness. I can personally attest to that. For those of us who had the privilege of appearing on 'Meet the Press,' Sunday mornings will never be the same."
— Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich.

"Western New York, in particular, will miss Tim Russert because he was in every way Mr. Buffalo. Even when he was interviewing presidents and heads of state, Western New Yorkers knew that his blue collar, Buffalo sensibility guided him throughout."
— Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

"I appeared on 'Meet the Press' a few times, and he was always a tough questioner but a very knowledgeable and informed and sincere questioner, and someone I think everyone has a huge amount of respect for."
— Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff.

"His passing is a loss for our country and for all who hold dear the principle of a press that is free, vibrant and responsible."
— CIA Director Michael Hayden.

"Having sat in the studio with him, I can only say that he was a gentleman when the 'on air' light was lit as well as when it was not."
— Former New York City Mayor Giuliani.

"Buffalo has lost a favorite son, and our nation has a lost a giant of political journalism. Tim was my favorite sparring partner — he was always tough, always fair, and always cared about the issues."
— Rep. Tom Reynolds, R-N.Y.

"Tim will be sorely missed because his years as a Senate staffer and probing TV journalist gave him special insights on political and governmental issues. Had he chosen law as a career, his cross-examination would have made him a star in that field as well."
— Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa.