June 22, 2008
Posted: 11:30 AM ET
NBC's Tom Brokaw
NBC's Tom Brokaw

NEW YORK (AP) — Veteran news anchor Tom Brokaw will moderate NBC's "Meet the Press" through the November election in the place of the late Tim Russert, the network announced Sunday.

Brokaw is scheduled to start on June 29. He had filled in on the program for the Sunday following Russert's death of a heart attack on June 13.

NBC News President Steve Capus said the show will continue to be produced in Washington.

"To have someone of Tom's stature step up and dedicate himself to ensuring its ongoing success is not only a testament to his loyalty to Tim, but his enduring commitment to NBC News and our
viewers," Capus said.

Nothing was immediately said about who would anchor the broadcast after the election or whether Brokaw, 68, would be interested in continuing beyond that. He wouldn't be the oldest man
on the Sunday morning beat — CBS' "Face the Nation" host Bob Schieffer is 71.

For now, the move provides NBC with a measure of stability during a key time. "Meet the Press" had dominated the Sunday morning ratings under Russert, making NBC a reported $60 million a
year. An anchor with Brokaw's stature could help prevent viewers from defecting to second-place George Stephanopoulos on ABC, for example.

Brokaw has remained active since stepping down as "Nightly News" host after the 2004 election. He has made documentaries and served as a commentator during some of MSNBC's primary night
coverage this election season.

He was a good friend of Russert's and said he talked to him almost daily. Brokaw was the first speaker at Russert's memorial service in Washington.

Brokaw said he feels right at home on "Meet the Press."

"Tim made `Meet the Press' the center of the universe for informative and lively discussions of public affairs, particularly the exciting 2008 campaign for president, and I intend to continue that commitment to our viewers," he said.

David Gregory, Andrea Mitchell and Chris Matthews had been talked about as potential candidates for the full-time job as moderator. If Brokaw weren't interested in continuing, his tenure would allow NBC more time to study a potential selection and have that person debut during a less intense news period.

Filed under: AP • Popular Posts • Tim Russert • Tom Brokaw


rebecca   June 22nd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

one name: Gwen Ifill

Tom   June 22nd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Mr. Brokaw has the stature not only to continue the professionalism of Mr. Russert; he has the potential to re-establish a standard of statesmanship in the TV and cable network media. With a few exceptions, the major networks and cable news stations have taken on the aura of “attack dog", "sensationalist", "target shooting" personalities. What our country needs now are calm, honest, humble yet immensely believable and fair journalists. Our nation has not been living up to our own expectations for some time and the media as well as the government share the responsibility for that with the rest of us Americans. Maybe Mr. Brokaw will arise to the challenge. For if the truth is realized, over the next several months, he will have more influence than the current President, the candidates for the Office of President and the leadership of the Senate and Congress.

Mr. Brokaw is up to the task. Hopefully he will be able to make the rest of us more capable as we choose where our country is going in the future.

Thomas. W. Diekmann
Jacksonville, Fl.

eyra shanbag   June 22nd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Brokaw would be a very good fit for "Meet the Press". He is someone we can trust.
Please….no Chris Matthews or Olbermann.
We need a straight forward approach with no drama.

Wayne in Kearney, MO   June 22nd, 2008 4:32 pm ET

David Gregory is the obvious choice - talented and bright. Andrea lacks the leadership qualities it would take to demand the stage, and Chris Matthews is too rude and crude. He (Chris) would be better to have a show where he didn't have guests to interupt. Haaaa! (Chris's laugh)

Bville Okie   June 22nd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Excellent choice, thank you Tom for stepping up and following a friends footsteps !!

Nancy   June 22nd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

The best choice. Now I'll watch again, although Tim will continue to be missed!!!

j gannon   June 22nd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Just wished he minded his own business and not commented on the Obama/Clinton campaign, makes it hard to take his opinion as down the middle!

Carol Weimar   June 22nd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Perfect choice. At least will we see, for the first time in this election, objectivity, which has not been seen in broadcasting for some time.

Carol   June 22nd, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Glad to see Tom Brokaw step in, but I would really love to see NBC train and bring up Tim Russert's son, Luke.

DK only 18   June 22nd, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Sorry but i missed the part where Tom Brokaw became reputable again.

Go get 'em Tom   June 22nd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Tim Russert was the best. Tom Brokaw is just about the only jouranlist with the intelligence, drive, and stature to step in.

I'm sure I speak for many who thank Tom Brokaw for accepting NBC's offer to moderate "Meet The Press"

It's going to be a wild election season.

katiec   June 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

We will miss Tim Russert and am glad to see someone of
integrity take his place. Tom has always been fair and does
not participate in the inadequate reporting we have seen from
commentators. He does not sensationalize and tends to
stick to facts.
Welcome, Tom, we need a person of your calibur for this
position,.
Todays program was an absolute diaster.

Doris,Memphis,TN   June 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Thank you Tom Brokaw for agreeing to moderate Meet the Press.
Tim Russert was a fair and honorable journalist and so are you.
I usally watch the show three times on Sunday.
If you can not stay as the permanent replacement,
please suggest Brian Williams. He was excellent today!
If Brian can not moderate because of his position on the
evening news than NBC must select Keith Olbermann.
Keith is brillant. The ratings will drop with the potential candidates listed above.

Ell   June 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

We as Americans only hope for equal objectivity. Thank you!

Mike,ct   June 22nd, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Yes WE can.

Obama is black and white look at his family.

Why people choose black because skin color.

He grew up with his white mother,white grand mother and white grand father.

Vote change all, not color of skin.

Also if McCain have experience WhY WE IN DET.

Experience have us in this MESS we in.

OBAMA 08 HILLARY 2016

BROOKLYN   June 22nd, 2008 3:37 pm ET

He is a great man and it seems the perfect person to handle the elections…

I am quite sure Mr. Russert would be honored…

Marie in California   June 22nd, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Remind me not to watch. I've tuned out the MSM since they started hustling and pimping Obama for the Democratic nomination and now for the general election. Not what I would call objective and unbiased reporting.

Geri   June 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

This would be the best for NBC and all its viewers. Tom Brokaw is fair, honest, straight forward, and appealing. It will also give them time to find some one of Tim's stature to fill the spot if Tom doesn't want it. Hopefully he will. Good luck, Tom.

Monica for Obama in Indiana   June 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

That's good news, I am sure Brian Williams and the others will help out.

Vic   June 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Tom Browkaw is a news icon who is an excellent choice to temporarily fill Tim Russert's host position at MEET THE PRESS. Brian Williams did an excellent job today to bridge the gap. As for as consideration of a permanent replacement, following the November elections, there are only two that come to my mind. They are David Gregory of NBC News and present host of ROAD TO THE WHITE HOUSE, presently running on MSNBC. The only other person of appropriate stature to host MEET THE PRESS is Chris Wallace, now of Fox News. These two news professional have always been careful so as not to appear too partisan, and this the type person I would hope NBC is looking for.

Kevin from   June 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

He's a loser!!!!!!!!! Keith O is the best person for the job…………………………….

April   June 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I for one like the choice of Tom Brokaw taking over Meet the Press on Sundays. I believe Tom was the only reporter in the panel when Chris (I cross my legs whenever I see Hillary) Mathews said, Hillary should drop out, and continued by asking the panel if that should be the case. Tom was the only person who said, Hillary should continue and said something to this effect, If the shoe was on the other foot, the supporters of Obama will want him to continue too till all the States and people voted and all the votes are counted. This is the kind of 'UNBAIS REPORTING" that we need in a reporter. A reporter. who does his job of reporting and not "GIVING THE PUBLIC HIS OPINIONS ABOUT WHAT TO THINK, VOTE, DO OR THE LIKE." YES, NBC, YOU HAVE GOTTEN THIS ONE RIGHT.
For a permanent substitute, please, dig some more. Those three you mentioned are not it. Especially, Chris (I cross my legs whenever I see Hillary) Mathews. He is as sexist and bias as they come. Andrea Mitchell, a fine reporter but she is not right for this position though, I will very much want a woman in this position. David Gregory, may be a good fit as long as he would stick to reporting and keep his opinions to himself and know the material as Tim Russert use to do. So far in his reporting, he seems alright but must keep his body language to a minimum. You know, if you do not like a candidate, do not let it show by your facial expression, and body language and by cutting a reporter short if he or she does not answer the way you want to hear. KEEP IT “RUSSERTSETIZE”. Otherwise, look for a fresh face.
Please, Please NBC BOSSES “NO CHRIS (I cross my legs whenever I see Hillary) Mathews. The man is too unfair and sexiest to say the least."
FOR NOW THANKS NBC FOR MAKING A GOOD CHOICE. BROKAW JUST REMEMBER TO MENTION RUSSERT ONCE IN A WHILE. WE LOVE THE GUY.
USA

Malama Makena   June 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The title "Meet The Press" came from the original format - a guest was questioned by the moderator Laurence Spivack of the New York Times and a panel of other journalists, thus - Meet The Press. It could return to that format with a panel of newsmen and women, led by a moderator.

If it stays in the current format, there is no one on NBC's staff more knowledgeable about history and politics, and willing to ask the hardball questions than Chris Matthews.

Career Fed   June 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

NBC needs to take a look at David Schuster - he's the only one in their stable of talent that doesn't play up to power. David Gregory and Andrea Mitchell are too concerned about what people will think of them and if they'll get invited to the next big Washington party to do "Meet The Press" justice…and Chris Matthews is a loose cannon, love him to death, but he's way to opinionated for that job…nope, David Schuster…look at David!

GO GET EM !!!!!!   June 22nd, 2008 2:51 pm ET

GOOD Luck MR BROKAW!!!!!!!!!

Bobby   June 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Brokaw for president much better than mcbush

RONNIE   June 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Brokaw is right man for the job!He strikes a cord with viewers like Russert did and Chris Matthews would not keep the viewers that Meet The Press has,he is too combative for that.David Gregory would do a great job if Brokaw doesn't want to do the show after the elections.

candycane   June 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Tom Brokaw will indeed fill the shoes of the late Tim Russert. This will preserve the Meet the Press broadcast and Tom will take the position in an ethical, fair and intellectual manner. NBC will have a very difficult time finding someone to take this position permanently and move it forward as Tim Russert did. Tom Brokaw is the best!!
Excellent decision!!

Jamie woods   June 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Of course

Ron, Fort Worth, TX   June 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I have always respected Tom Brokaw. He is one of the most professional, caring, and respected journalists in the world. For him to step up at this difficult time, is another credit to his character and concern for the legacy of a very close friend and Colleague. He will do a splendid job, as he always has. Way to go Mr. Brokaw. Tim will be proud of you.

Pat Va   June 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

No Tim, but a verey good choice, indeed!

Marc PDX   June 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Good choice. Tom Brokaw, like Tim Russertt, is a top notch journalist and interviewer.

DebDeb   June 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Excellent choice. It doesn't get any better than Tom Brokaw.

Connie   June 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I say God's speed to Mr.Brokaw , I am sure he knows he can not fill Mr.Russert's shoes, but I am sure they were very good friends and he will make Mr.Russert proud. I am hoping to see Luke Russert on from time to time, maybe he could give a view point from the younger voters.
May God Bless you all. OBAMA 08

Connie from Indiana

TamikoinSpfldIL   June 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Good temporary move to have Brokaw captain the ship….
Chris Matthews would be a bad idea just like putting Keith Olbermann there would be a bad idea. David Gregory is a good choice as well as Andrea Mitchell.

Rachel Maddow would be a good choice because she is brilliant but she is too brand new to viewers who don't watch Countdown and Race to the White House.

JB   June 22nd, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Nobody can fill Tim's shoes, but Mr. Brokaw is about as close as your gona get. Good luck Tom!

Obama- Do not feel obligated to fix Hillary's economical missteps. She ran an economically inferior campaign. It isn't your problem to fix. She is a multi millionaire, let her pay off her own debts.

bernice   June 22nd, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Big shoes to fill. Go Brokaw

Becky   June 22nd, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Excellent choice. Tom Brokaw has always been my favorite among the News Anchors and I have missed him tremendously.

Taos Glo   June 22nd, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I am so happy that Tom Brokaw will step into Tim's shoes. He too is
unbiased and his reporting is fair and balanced. I expect we will
hear some good fair reporting on the election coverage. I doubt there will be ANY worry that GS will take from Tom! Totally different types
of reporting, and totally unbiased. Thanks Tom, we will all really
miss Tim.
God Bless
Taos Glo, Taos NM

Michael Korchynski   June 22nd, 2008 2:09 pm ET

I could not think of any newsman other than Tom Brokaw qualified to carry on the excellence of Meet the Press in the tradition of Tim Russert. Tom is an excellent interviewer, a gentleman and without political bias. I know that Tim could not be happier that Tom is guiding the ship during this election cycle. I will certainly maintain my viewership. The main reason is because of Tom Brokaw.'s integrity.

Cynthia   June 22nd, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Tom Brokaw is a good choice to fill in until the election. It will be interesting to see who they pick to replace Tim. One thing I do know for sure is that the person chosen will have some large shoes to fill.

Brice Kibler   June 22nd, 2008 2:04 pm ET

The choice of Tom Brokaw for Meet The Press is very correct. There are several other excellent newsmen and women at NBC, but the procsss of permanent selection should be carefully thought out. I'm a fan of Meet the Press and MSNBC. It's a good news world when I can be similarly impressed by CNN and them as well. Both can be wonderful. Bless both!

Andrea Kelly   June 22nd, 2008 2:03 pm ET

David Gregory should be the replacement for Tim Russert in the long
run unless Tom Brokaw clones himself. Mattews talks too much and
doesn't listen to anyone and then screams and never admits his bad
judgement such as giving Bush a buy for 8 years. Andrea Mitchell
has a bad look, there's nothing soft about her, she has to have the last
word as well. David is young, smart and he listens to others . He's the
one.

L.YNN   June 22nd, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Mr. Russert, I am sure, is honored and proud to have his close friend who shares his views, who will seek the truth and hold the Candidates accountable, as he trys to fill his shoes. The right choice was made to go with Mr. Brokow at this time. It is going to be hard and I am not sure if there is anybody else who can fill his shoes. I will contnue to watch because "Meet The Press" is the number one political show on TV and all of Mr. Russert's loyal fan will continue to make it number one as a testiment to him.
KUDOS to MSNBC and Tom Brokow for stepping up to the plate to fill the void left by Tim. Rest in peace knowing that your show is in good hands that your family is in our hearts and that we will never forget you.
I will especially remember him fondly on May 7th each year which was and is my birthday as well.
Thank you to CNN fot making the video of his Memorial available to those of us who had to work during that time.

Dani   June 22nd, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Having Andrea Mitchell be the new moderator would add some gender diversity to the overwhelmingly male dominated news media.

Elizabeth, MInnesota   June 22nd, 2008 1:58 pm ET

While I still tear up at the loss of Tim, I also miss Tom Brokaw on nightly news and am glad he'll be active and around again!

CJ   June 22nd, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Great Choice for NBC, even though no one could fill Tim Russert's shoes , at least with the caliber of journalism that Brokaw brings , the show has a chance to stay the force it was under Russert.

susan paisley   June 22nd, 2008 1:55 pm ET

One of the great things about Tm Russert was that he seemed completely unbiased. That certainly isn't true about Chris Mathews. He would be a very poor choce for that job!

Susan   June 22nd, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Tim Russert will be missed, and we are glad Tom Brokaw will be stepping in. Two great anchors!!

Independent   June 22nd, 2008 1:50 pm ET

"Tommy B."…Tim would be so proud that you are filling his shoes for now…."go get'em"…..

The double rainbow was awesome…..it gave me chills…..

Generation X   June 22nd, 2008 1:42 pm ET

No one and I mean No one can replace Tim Russert. Especially, not Andrea Mitchell!!

Jerry in Fresno   June 22nd, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Keith Olbermann would be the best choice for Meet The Press.

He has the type of voice that one can listen to for an hour.

In fact he has better fast delivery then Tim Russert.

He is quick witted and can smoothly change points of view.

He fears no one.

He has an underlying sense of humor that Tim Russert had.

He can engage without being obnoxious as did Tim Russert.

One vote here for Keith Olbermann!

Upon Further Review   June 22nd, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Tim was very good but I would like to see his successor have more of a bite like a pitbull on both parties.Tim was a little too soft for my liking.

Trev   June 22nd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Good call! At least he is more impartial than Keith Olberman.

Krista   June 22nd, 2008 1:28 pm ET

I knew they would turn to Tom. However, I thought then, and I still do that the new person may be:

Chuck Todd(MSNBC)
Jake Tapper(ABC)
Al Hunt (Bloomberg)
Tom Brokaw(MSNBC)
Dan Abrams(MSNBC)

someone of those dispositions…..Tapper and Todd would be great. Brokaw, Abrams, and Hunt could also fill the role but it would take sometime I think for them to really move the ball…

There are others that could take over but wouldn't likely do it. For instance, Charlie Rose. People love Charlie Rose. But, with all that Charlie is involved in, it is unlikely that he would get involved with NBC Universal…Another good candidate would be Scott Pelly…Even some journalist such as Evan Thomas and others would be a good fit. Of course these people too, have many things going on in their lives and wouldn't likely have the time and most of the print journalist would need major coaching….In any case, there is a good list of people to select from. I like Andrea, Chris and David but I wouldn't watch any of them for an hour……

Scott,Cincinnati, OH   June 22nd, 2008 1:25 pm ET

I tried to watch this morning, unfortunately those amazing questions that rolled right out of Tim so easily just weren't there. Ofcourse I also can't stand to see or here Lindsey Graham. Tom Brokaw is a respectable choice. I think another choice that may have opened up the dialog further and to a larger audience would have been Donna Brazil who appeared so often on Meat The Press. There is and will be for sometime a huge void in the respectable and honorable way news was presented to us on Sundays, which set the bar for the news cycle all week. There isn't another news program out there that even comes close. When our choices are as limited as they now are, I feel the time is right for a BOLD NEW CHANGE.

Jane Klein   June 22nd, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Tim would be so pleased- and Tom is showing his loyalty as a friend.
In addition, Tom is really the only one we can accept for now.

Raymond Duke   June 22nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Brokaw will do a good job. He has the experience to pull it off and probably would be just as good as Russert trying to swing and sway the vote for Obama. All the news media is mostly liberal and were very bais in the direction of Obama. So we won't be getting anything new from the news . It doesn't matter to me . I don't watch any political news anymore because of this and already know who I will vote for in November. Straight republican ticket. I can't take the chance of Obama winning the election with peolosi and reid running the senate and house .I have now been forced to vote republican to stop a socialist anti- american movement.

Bishop   June 22nd, 2008 1:19 pm ET

May the spirit of Tim be with you!!!

Joyce   June 22nd, 2008 1:14 pm ET

I'm confident that Tom Brokaw will continue on in the spirit of the political round tables that we've become accustomed to each Sunday morning.

GARY   June 22nd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

GREAT THEY REPLACE TIM RUSSERT WITH A LEFTIST LIBERAL LIKE BROKAW THATS LIKE WHEN WALLY PIP REPLACED LOU GEHRIG AT FIRST BASE

Tami   June 22nd, 2008 1:09 pm ET

We will all miss Tim greatly but I grew up with Tom on NBC news and trust him to take us through this so important political season. Thank you Tom. I honestly can't think of anyone better to take the helm at this critica time.

Tami from SC

Joyce   June 22nd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

It's wonderful news. I'm confident that Tom Brokaw will continue the fairness in the political round tables that we've come to respect and expect through the years from Tim Russert's Meet the Press.

JOHN ROURKE   June 22nd, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Thank You Tom. We all will certainly miss Tim a great deal but with you anchoring "Meet the Press", his legacy will live on in good hands.

Independent   June 22nd, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Good! I applaud that decision.

susie   June 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I am glad Keith Olbermann didn't get the position, he's so bias. Chris Mathews doesn't know how to be objective either.

Chipster   June 22nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Brian Williams did an outstanding job this morning. It must have been a very emotional time for him. He or Tom Brokaw would be excellent choices to take the reigns and respect journalistic standards. Tim Russert had full control of the show and no apparent agenda. He never used the show to promote his personal beliefs and always maintained control of his guests.

Too many other political forums allow guests to all speak at once. There's no point in watching because you cannot learn anything with so many people talking at once. Russert never allowed that. He was a true professional and will be sorely missed.

dr. joe   June 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

GREAT CHOICE.

Emanuela Charlton   June 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I watched Meet the Press this morning and really believe that
Brian Williams did an absolutely outstanding job of moderating the broadcast.

I really think Williams should be the number one candidate for consideration to replace the recently deceased Tim Russert whom I and everyone else admired so greatly.

Brian Williams is savvy, articulate and certainly at the right stage in his career to take on the long term responsibility of Meet the Press. He is really great with his nightly news show pitted against Katie Couric of CBS (not good) and Charlie Gibson of ABC, who is also a great newscaster. Wiliams was actually better on Meet the Press this morning than he is in his really great nightly newscast.

Brian Williams clearly should be the new permanent moderator of Meet the Press.

E. Charlton, Ph.D.

M Lynn ND   June 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Great choice. Tim would be pleased.

linda from South Dakota   June 22nd, 2008 12:44 pm ET

tom,, your a good one to fill his shoes,, report the truth,,, americans deserve that,,,

Deb from Indy   June 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Thanks for stepping up, Tom. Tim would be proud.

E - EU   June 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Tom Brokaw is a professional, and I Do like him. However, out of respect for Tim Russert, I think NBC should have cancelled the shows, perhaps for weeks, or month or two, until they had a decent 'subsitute' of which would then take his place…..

Otherwise, with Tom Brokaw, I feel that they are taking someone who has already 'hit his professional high point' - and 'giving him more icing" and I Think that makes both NBC et Tom look really bad!

John Henderson   June 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Chris Matthews interjects himself way too much to fill Russert's shoes. David Gregory is too much softball. Andrea Mitchell? You've got to be kidding. What about Keith Olbermann?

Chris   June 22nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Tom Brokaw will do an excellent job. He has always been a consumate professional and we as viewers will look forward to seeing him on the show.

independent   June 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

it just wont be the same…..

William   June 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Brokaw is an excellent choice!! I don't think there is really anyone on that team more qualified to fill in for Tim Russert than Tom Brokaw. He will continue the quality journalism that was a cornerstone of Tim's legacy on the show. I urge him to continue on after the election.

j   June 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Someone's got to take the job and Brokaw seems like a reasonable choice.

Another old white woman for Obama   June 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Excellent choice!
Thanks Tom. We'll be watching.

E. C., Houston, Texas   June 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

This is great news! He's the ultimate professional, just like Russert, who will definitely be missed. What a loss to the World. Also, Gregory would be a great guy to fill in with Brokaw. He's wonderful and engaging as a personality, a guy with a true sense of humor.
My sincere condolence to the Russert Family.

Jean Deterville   June 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

GREAT CHOICE, CONGRATULATION TOM !!!!! YOU WILL MAKE TIM PROUD & HAPPY HE WILL BE WATCHING TO HELP GUIDE YOU. GOOD LUCK BEST WISHES

BEST REGARDS FROM CANADA
JEAN DETERVILLE

Wendy   June 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I have loads of respect for Tom Brokaw. I would prefer they just retire Meet the Press and start a new Sunday morning program. II can't even watch iit now with out Tim Russert in his sear. It has to be a new start. There is no replacement for Tim Russert

Texas Trail Dog   June 22nd, 2008 12:14 pm ET

The only way to fill the void of a wonderful press commentator is with another, Tom Brokaw. My hat's off to you NBC. We will miss you Tim. God bless you and your family.

multitaskin   June 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

TOM BROKAW IS MOST CERTAINLY A PART OF HIS OWN "GREATEST GENERATION". WEIRD CONCEPT THAT LOYALTY AND COMMITMENT IS IN OUR SOCIETY. GREAT EXAMPLES FROM RUSSERT AND BROKAW.

KIKI   June 22nd, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Tim is irreplaceble but as long as he will not be bias and ask tough questions to candidates I will be watching him.

Media objectivity   June 22nd, 2008 12:04 pm ET

"I.F. Stone" "Edward R. Murrow" "Walter Cronkite" "Tim Russert" - The list of the truly outstanding objective "no spin zone" journalists is sadly very thin.

I hope in the Post Reagan Bush Clinton Bush era, it is possible to have objective media.

Mike Cairo, NY   June 22nd, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Hey Tom, glad to see you've decided to "plow snow" for one more season!

Over50   June 22nd, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Why am I not surprised that NBC reaches out to another "grandpa" to foist their antiquated political views on America? Heck, they're running another "grandpa" for President!

It is time to move to the younger generation. The older generation needs to relax a little and let people who have a future decide what it should be instead of forcing them into becoming subservient to their portfolios. Having an American dream and working to achieve it is the American way. Having a bunch of old men decide what road you will hoe is the Soviet way.

The man for this job is Dan Abrams. It's about time the nation get a breather from the conservative military mindset.

Tony, Miami   June 22nd, 2008 11:59 am ET

To wear the shoes of Tim Russert is no easy task but if there is someone who can is Tom Brokaw.

TEXAS FOR OBAMA   June 22nd, 2008 11:57 am ET

Tom Brokaw will do an excellent job and be fair on Meet the Press. I hope he doesn't start pushing his views and putting words in the mouths of his guests like Wolfe Blitzer and Campbell Brown does.

Obama 08 - 12

Bob Stephens   June 22nd, 2008 11:57 am ET

Just as long as they don't pick Chris ( don't let anyone answer a question without interrupting them 5 times) Matthews.

Raghu   June 22nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

Can someone explaim the death of Tim Russert? I still don't get it.

Ive heard of Russert, but who is Brokaw?

Marge Hibbing Mn   June 22nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

Well at least we might get an unbiased report from now on. Russert might have been a nice person but he had his head so far up the republicans butt he was always in a fog. EXCEPT WHEN HE WAS SLURRING HILLARY CLINTON.

No Hillary Gore VP   June 22nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

Chris M. BY FAR THE BEST choice of these (3) .
Even though a Rep. he always has a level fair playing field actually Obama could use a vp like Chris M.(Chris acts, thinks fast ) Way to go Chris.

Susan Clark   June 22nd, 2008 11:47 am ET

Tom Brokaw is the only person my friends and I thought might adequately fill the chair for Tim Russert. Our thanks to Tom for stepping into Tim's shoes at a painful time, and yet such a significant time in American election history.

Jorge   June 22nd, 2008 11:45 am ET

I think we all know that Tom Brokaw retired as NBC Nightly News Anchor not too long ago, but to be honest with you all, I think he's the perfect pick as Tim Russert's successor. I sure hope he decides to continue moderating the program after the election season ends.

Mariam Banday   June 22nd, 2008 11:44 am ET

I love Tom Brokaw!!! I think Tom and Brian Williams are the best thing to happen to NBC. They are truly inspirational and report it like it is, kind of like Anderson Cooper of CNN. Anderson is amazing, and these people are the few people who actually are not bias in this world of media dictatorship on reporting the news.

I missed him so much when he left NBC, there couldn't be a better person to take up this role.

annie   June 22nd, 2008 11:41 am ET

Hopefully Mr. Brokaw will not be as openly and publically biased about obama as Mr. Russert was.

Chris   June 22nd, 2008 11:39 am ET

Who cares?

Media's belief that a person that comes on TV and reads scripts has some significance in our lives is beyond arrogant and ignorant.

In addition, a person that has coronary heart disease/diabetes that continued to smoke, overeat, and not slow down is not a role model.

Franky   June 22nd, 2008 11:39 am ET

Ohhh cool! Tom is gonna take his place. He's pretty good, pretty good….

Catherine Maxwell   June 22nd, 2008 11:28 am ET

Who better to take the reins temporarily than one of Tim Russert's closest friends and colleagues. What a tribute to both Meet the Press as well as Tim Russert! Meet the Press will be in very capable hands with Tom Brokaw at the helm.

Meg   June 22nd, 2008 11:26 am ET

Great news! I've always had such respect for Brokaw. He's what I consider to be old style: respectful of guests, non-judgemental of differing opinions, reports news in an objective manner, and does not insult his audience by jamming his own opinion down their throats. Brokaw is right up there with Walter Kronkite. . .a real gentleman and a wonderful figure in news broadcasting!

Charlotte   June 22nd, 2008 11:26 am ET

Excelent choice! Tom is one of the last true journalist. He keeps his cool and looks at the facts.

Roderick   June 22nd, 2008 11:25 am ET

I think Brokaw or Brian Williams both would have been a good choice. Tom has some mighty big shoes to fill, but, I know he will do an excellent job. We will always miss Tim.

linda from South Dakota   June 22nd, 2008 11:24 am ET

tom ,, your a good one to fill those shoes, although russet can never be replaced,, you go tom,,,, report the truth,,

Ardnuas   June 22nd, 2008 11:23 am ET

GREAT choice…… I will still miss Tim !!!!

Phil, FL   June 22nd, 2008 11:22 am ET

Excellent !!!

Brokaw is a true journalist. Not like the 24/7 gossip/spinners that we see on the other networks.

Welcome aboard, Tom.

Nik   June 22nd, 2008 11:22 am ET

Good. If Matthews or Olbamaman get the position, I'll stop watching MSNBC altogether.

Kenneth   June 22nd, 2008 11:21 am ET

Tom is good but Tim will be hard to replace.

Kenneth M.   June 22nd, 2008 11:20 am ET

The bench must not be that deep. What about Brian Williams or Matt Laura?

S. Boatman Warrensburg Mo.   June 22nd, 2008 11:19 am ET

Tom Will Do A Fine Job. . . . But You Just Cant Replace What Tim Had! My Sundays Will Always Be Different!

Bill From Florida   June 22nd, 2008 11:17 am ET

We are all going to miss Tim Russert. I hope Brokaw will be as fair
as Tim was,.I hope Browaw is not another Jack Cafferty and slobber all over himself at the mention of Obama's name.

CNN PLEASE PRINT THIS.

Danny, CA   June 22nd, 2008 11:16 am ET

This is a wrong choice. This guy a liberal and he will be propaganda for Barack Obama. MSNBC has been always pro-Obama channel and Tim Russert was the only one who was fair and unbiased. All other reporters including Tom Brokaw are far left liberals. NBC has to bring in a new face, if they want to keep their viwers. In my case, I will stop watching MEET THE PRESS because I do not believe in Tom Brokaw and the rest fo the gang like Keith Olberman, Chris Mathews, Biran Williams, David Gregory, Dan Abrams. All are biased and should be fired. These guys will not get a job anywhere else. I do nto know if CNN may take them.

L.V. from Minnesota   June 22nd, 2008 11:09 am ET

Good Luck and God Bless You… I was really looking for somebody young to replace Tim. Actually I was hoping for his son to be the one to take over… that is a really good kid….. that wouldve been as magical for me as seeing Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton joining in unity on the ticket at the Democratic National Convention.

Please give Tom your support folks, i dont want to see anything negative on here about him!!!!

Obama/Clinton/Paul/Huckabee/Bloomberg '08

MaryL- Ca   June 22nd, 2008 11:04 am ET

Tom Brokaw is an excellent anchor and he will do a good job on "Meet the Press" until a decision is made on a permanent person. Of course, Tim Russert will be missed and "Meet the Press" was Russert's program….."hard shoes to fill".

Patrick Henry   June 22nd, 2008 11:04 am ET

This is great.
I hope he follows through like Glenn Beck and some venues of CNN and FOX and allows some public scrutiny of the Green and Libertarian Parties and their candidates.

At a time when large numbers of citizens in both the Republican and Democratic Party are discenchanted with their choices in November–there is a very strong chance one of the "other" parties could have a very significant impact on the national election.

This is particularly true for white male moderates/conservatives of low to middle income–who really don't have anybody representing their interests from the platforms.

A CANUCK   June 22nd, 2008 10:55 am ET

I really missed Tim this morning ….Sunday will never be the same.

Wrong   June 22nd, 2008 10:55 am ET

Then why is Brian Jennings doing it?

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