As Father, Like Son ~Tim & Luke Russert

Last night, as I was watching Larry King Live, I was very impressed with the wisdom that Tim Russert so lovingly passed on to his son, Luke. The discussion centered around the youth vote, and the new age of internet politics.

Luke gave a stunning analysis of how the youth of today have become more involved in the political process, partly due to the fact that they are realizing that it does affect them, but largely due to the internet and its easy access. Luke also said he believed more college students would vote if registration was available to them on the day of the election, because so many of them are so busy studying and cramming for tests that they forget to go register.

When asked about party affilliation, Luke replied that he is an Independemt because attaching yourself to a party sort of closes your mind to a point where you stop listening to the other side. He said he likes to wait til the last minute to decide so that he doesn't miss anything, and gives both sides an opportunity to make their case.

Luke lovingly remebered his Father, and the political dicussions that had always been a part of their household. He said his Dad often used him and his friends as sounding boards for his interviews, he asking questions and they responding as if they were the guest. Luke said if he or his friends answered a question too easily, Tim would scrap the question, saying, "I'm not being tough enough." Luke smiled that huge Russert smile as he spoke.  

When asked if he would be following in his Father's footsteps Luke did not even hesitate, but seemed to reach out to the Peacock network, as though to say, "I'm here, just waiting for the offer." Larry King assured Luke there was a place for him, maybe even at CNN.

This article is written in loving memory of Tim Russert, who served his country well, as the most beloved journalist in America. Tim, you will be missed, but thanks for the gift of raising your son, Luke to follow in your very wise footsteps.

Image courtesy JAMD