Russert

I was tremendously saddened to hear about the death of Tim Russert. As an Australian with a strong interest in American politics, I have spent a lot of time listening to various podcasts of US news programs over the last few years.

In the in-between times, whether that be sitting on a bus or walking to the shops, I've been able to hear about America and its politics, in a depth far greater than can be provided by the Australian media. I really value that.

There was nothing I enjoyed more than waking up on a Monday morning (Sydney time) to find a new Meet the Press. Sure, I'd download This Week, Face the Nation, and Fox News Sunday, but Meet the Press would always come first.

For me, if it was Monday, it would be Meet the Press.

While people apparently characturised Russert by his distinctive image, I knew his voice well before I ever saw him. Indeed, the first time I saw video of Meet the Press, it formed quite a disjunct.

But it was Russert's sheer love of politics and of journalism which carried through his voice. It was that which I found so compelling.

I haven't and normally wouldn't write something like this, but someone commented on my F*cking Obama video to note Russert's cameo. It stuck with me.

I'll miss him.

Obama & McCain

Really happy that it has come down to these two candidates. A bit sad to see Hillary go, simply because she was such a great source of comedy.

Anyway, a look back at my first (but certainly not my last) video for the final two: