In Memoriam

The Bean Patch wishes to take a brief break from reporting the news of DC’s greatest new star to acknowledge the passing of another DC treasure.

Tim Russert went off to work a week ago today just as he had so many weeks and years before, his loyal staff springing to work, beginning the hard push for another week producing the best political talk show on television. Then, as he was recording his famous opening enticement “our issue this week…”, one of Washington’s greats collapsed and died.

Since then, Washington has been abuzz with a parade of journalists and political dignitaries paying homage to a man who revolutionized his industry – a man who managed to be the model of neutrality in a town defined by divisions. A decidedly ungraceful, unglamorous man gracefully showed it was possible to be exceptionally well-liked in a get-ahead town and a get-ahead business.

The Bean Patch has several friends who worked closely with Mr. Russert and our hearts go out to all of them. But, Mr. Russert was a boss, friend and co-worker (and more) to them. To the rest of us, it was a very different relationship. He was the people’s representative; he provided us with the invaluable service of holding our elected leaders accountable for their actions. We, too, have lost a friend – our advocate – and he will be missed.

Alas, life and news must move on. But, as we turn on the television in the coming weekends, it will be Sunday, it will be Meet the Press, but it will never be the same Meet the Press without Tim Russert.