    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [June 13, 2008]
    [Page 806]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Timothy J. Russert
    June 13, 2008

        Laura and I are deeply saddened by the sudden
    passing of Tim Russert. Those of us who knew and worked with Tim, his
    many friends, and the millions of Americans who loyally followed his
    career on the air will all miss him.
        As the longest serving host of the longest running program in the
    history of television, he was an institution in both news and politics
    for more than two decades. Tim was a tough and hard-working newsman. He
    was always well informed and thorough in his interviews, and he was as
    gregarious off the set as he was prepared on it.
        Most important, Tim was a proud son and father, and Laura and I offer our deepest sympathies to his wife
    Maureen, his son Luke,
    and the entire Russert family. We will keep them in our prayers.