I'm Not A Political Man But...

I am not a political man. I truly despise politics and it's lies, corruption and blatant hypocrisy. It's so discouraging to watch a feel good speech knowing in the back of your mind that the person you are hearing is only saying those words because they are trying to convince you to believe them in hopes that you will answer their call to action - whatever that action may be. Some famous guy once said that "Politicians will tell you they will build a bridge - even when their is no water." This was probably said by a politician trying to get people to get on their train. Whomever may have stated this - it sums up my belief and general faith in the political world. Having completely biased news networks does not boost my confidence.

But their was one man in the political world, the same world that I try not to follow, that somehow cut through the bull, and got real answers. A journalist, none the less, that was consistently honest, and was regarded as a pit bull on the political stage. This man was the son of a garbage collector. His father taught hard work and honesty as his core values. He worked with his father during the summer and was no stranger to the blue collar life. His life was a get only what you work for kind of style. After law college he entered the news world and quickly made his mark in the starched collar world. He went on to become the longest running host of the most respected political show in the world. He was able to ask the questions that made his guests face turn red. He was a common man in a powerful position. He asked the questions to our leaders that we wanted ask ourselves. Often getting the answers to question WHY? As the title of this blog states, I am honestly not a political man due to reasons mentioned above. But I could never turn the channel when this man was on because I felt a true sense of honesty and that earned my respect. No one has done what this man has done.

Unfortunately at the young age of 58, Tim Russert, long time host of NBC's "Meet The Press", suffered a massive heart attack while working on Sunday's show. Tim was NBC's Washington Bereau Chief as well. He was feared yet respected by politicians a trait that is not very common. He was listed by time magazine as one of last years most influential people and was labeled father of the year by parenting organizations.

A sad day in television news and a sad day for those of us who needed a straight shooter to cut through the bull.