Russert brings political rivals together even after his death

Barack Obama and John McCain sat next to each other today at Tim Russert’s funeral. Tim Russert, a man of faith, politics and a love for this great country would have wanted the seating arrangement. Tim Russert, a man of class and integrity, was known for grilling guests on NBC’s “Meet the Press” without regard to party affiliation or their standing in the polls. He added value, facts, intellectual honesty, seriousness, fairness and joy not only to his work but to the American people.

Tim Russert was the host of the Sunday-morning talk show “Meet the Press.” He died Friday of a heart attack at the age of 58. He also served as the Washington bureau chief for NBC News. A political insider, Tim Russert was known for conducting tough interviews of Washington’s most powerful politicians.

His funeral service was held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in the Georgetown. Although private,a loud speaker broadcast the service to onlookers standing along the street.

Luke Russert, Tim’s 22-year-old son, gave the eulogy. His mother and Tim Russert’s widow, Maureen Orth, looked on. “My dad was my best friend,” Luke Russert said, his voice strong and clear. “To explain my bond with my father is utterly impossible to put into words.” Luke Russert then gave what he described as his father’s last speech. He urged parents to hug their children. He indirectly urged Obama and McCain to avoid “low tactics,” and journalists to practice integrity and honesty.

With the candidates demonizing one another, only one person would have brought them together on the same bench.

O God, the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, grant to the soul of Tim Russert, Thy servant.

Share your views with the Chocolatecity.cc community.