RIP, Tim Russert (MORE: VIDEO OF BROKAW ANNOUNCEMENT ADDED)

MSNBC’s Tim Russert passed away today from a sudden heart attack while working. He was 58.

This is shocking, to say the least. My mouth dropped open when I got the news alert. Russert was one of the few journalists out there who, in my opinion, truly was fair and balanced 95% of the time. He would gave both sides hell often and neither of them liked it.

Malkin’s got a nice tribute to Russert posted here.

Many thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Life. It can be snatched away without a moment’s notice. Make sure to hug and kiss your family extra tight tonight. Sad stories like this remind us of life’s preciousness – and fragileness.

RIP, Mr. Russert.

1950 – 2008

Update: Here’s video of Tom Brokaw announcing Russert’s death today (via Allahpundit):

Update 2: The reax from the blogosphere and pundits alike are pouring in.