[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 101 (Wednesday, June 18, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1263]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF TIMOTHY JOHN RUSSERT, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 17, 2008

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 
1275, a resolution which honors the life of the late Timothy John 
Russert Jr. H. Res. 1275 was sponsored by a member of the Oversight 
committee, Representative Brian Higgins of New York and introduced 
yesterday with 89 original cosponsors.
  I would like to thank the House Leadership, Chairman Henry A. Waxman 
and Ranking Member Tom Davis for their support in bringing this measure 
to the floor in such a timely manner. I also wish to thank Edward 
Leong, senior counsel with House Legislative Counsel's office for his 
efforts in drafting a very fine resolution. Such cooperation, support 
and dedication to excellence are truly a fitting tribute to Timothy 
Russert.
  I think the Washington Post said it best. In the June 14, 2008 
edition, on the front of the Style section, the caption under Tim 
Russert's photo read, ``The ``Meet the Press'' moderator during a 
taping of his show last year. He got to do what he most wanted to do, 
and the news business was better for it.''
  I couldn't agree more. He was on top of his game as the NBC News 
Washington bureau chief and moderator of ``Meet the Press.'' In between 
ball games, cheering and supporting those Buffalo Bills, going to Mass, 
writing books about the wisdom of our fathers, hanging out with his 
son, Luke, and checking in on his father Big Russ, he did what he loved 
best--being an award wining political analyst.
  Madam Speaker, Timothy John Russert, Jr's sudden death, has left a 
huge void on the political landscape. I extend my deepest sympathy to 
his family and friends.
  I commend my colleague Representative Higgins for sponsoring this 
condolence measure and I urge its swift passage.

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