'Meet the Press' Moderator, Tim Russert Dies at 58

Tim Russert, a powerhouse of broadcast journalism who made interviewing both an art form and a contact sport on NBC's "Meet the Press,'' died today at age 58 of a heart attack after collapsing at the network's Washington bureau.More stories like thisRussert's death reverberated through the worlds of journalism and politics, two arenas where his passion matched his expertise. His preparation and tenacity on "Meet the Press'' made that show must-viewing inside the Beltway and beyond, and "the Russert Primary'' was considered a test that presidential candidates had to pass to be considered serious contenders.

Yet however rugged the exchanges, Russert invariably ended with the same gentlemanly refrain: "Thank you for sharing your views.'' Paradoxical though it seemed, Russert was both feared and liked in Washington, where he was NBC's bureau chief. That was reflected in the bipartisan tributes that poured forth today after Russert's death.

President Bush called Russert a "tough and hardworking newsman,'' who was "as gregarious off the set as he was prepared on it.'' Presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain called Russert "the preeminent political journalist of his generation'' and "a terrific guy,'' while presumptive Democratic nominee Barack Obama called Russert "irreplaceable'' and "one of the finest men I knew.''

Former President Bill Clinton and Senator Hillary Clinton, whose supporters often took issue with Russert's treatment of both, said in a joint statement: "Tim had a love of public service and a dedication to journalism that rightfully earned him the respect and admiration of not only his colleagues but also those of us who had the privilege to go toe to toe with him.'' Senator Edward M. Kennedy alluded to the high stakes a go-round with Russert: could have for a political career: "With a reasoned voice, a sharp mind, and a fair hand, Tim took the measure of every Washington official and those that sought to be one.''

According to NBC, Russert was recording voiceovers for Sunday's broadcast of "Meet the Press'' when he collapsed. NBC spokeswoman Allison Gollust said in an e-mail tonight that Russert died of a "sudden heart attack."Former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw announced the news on the air shortly after 3:30 p.m. Brokaw said Russert had just returned from a trip to Italy with his wife, Maureen Orth, and son, Luke, to celebrate Luke's recent graduation from Boston College.