I used to love politics - before it became mostly a battle for power rather than a debate of ideals. One of the remaining hopes I had for the merits of respectful politics died yesterday. I cannot remember being more affected by the death of someone I did not know.

Tim Russert was a Democrat - you knew that. But when he asked a question of a Democrat - you didn’t know Russert was a Democrat. When he asked a question of a Republican - you didn’t know Russert was a Democrat.  You just knew he was a journalist that cared about the truth.   I used to respect journalism for the important role that it provided to present the facts and perspectives of our culture. That was before the news became so increasingly political - regardless whether the topic is political.

One of the remaining hopes I had for the merits of factual interviews and dissemination of information died yesterday. There were no softballs to promote a political agenda - either his or his guests. There were no beanballs to promote a political agenda and harm the other side. Russert not only asked the toughest questions - but he asked the questions that needed to be asked. There was no opportunity for guests to escape with lies of omission. He did not accept non-answers or dodges or bullshit responses. He listened to answers and followed up. The words and the tone from Russert were precise and they left little option for lies. And on the rare occasion that someone tried pulling off an untrue statement - it would haunt them if they ever reappeared on Meet The Press.

Russert loved politics and reporting it for all of us. He was so prepared and knowledgeable on so many topics that I couldn’t help but compare….Russert vs. the guest. Which one would I rather have answering the questions? Tim Russert. Values, ethics, intelligence, listening, diplomacy, respect, leadership,…name a quality you would want in a politician - the qualities that are so lacking in our “leaders”. Tim Russert had all those qualities. I had thought about which candidate I plan to write in for President - Tim Russert would have been a great choice.

I can hear Russert saying - “it’s a great, great day.” But it isn’t - not for his family and friends….not for American politics….not for journalism….not for America.