In a lucky move for NBC and fans of Meet the Press, veteran newsman Tom Brokaw is stepping up to replace Tim Russert as the show's moderator-at least through the election-starting next Sunday. "The news was announced on the program today, a little over a week after the death of Tim Russert. A lot has been said in recent days about what Meet the Press means to NBC News and to the nation,' said NBC News President Steve Capus in a press release. '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.'"

"'Some of my best memories from covering the last several presidential elections have included working closely with Tom,' MTP Executive Producer Betsy Fischer said, 'so I know just how lucky we are to have him step in as moderator for Meet the Press. His intellect, focus and calming presence is exactly what we need to move forward smartly and remain the No. 1 public affairs show on television as we head into one of the most pivotal elections in our nation's history.'

"Brokaw is quoted in the release as well: 'I've been appearing on Meet the Press since the days of Watergate when it was moderated by Lawrence E. Spivak right through the distinguished tenure of my great friend, Tim Russert, so I feel right at home. 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.'

"The program will continue to be produced and taped at the NBC News Bureau in Washington, D.C." [MediaBistro]