Meet the Press

Gov. Martin O'Malley issued a statement this afternoon on the sudden passing of journalist Tim Russert, who died today of an apparent heart attack.

"I am deeply saddened and shocked by the news today of Tim Russert's passing," O'Malley said. "Our thoughts, and the thoughts of all Marylanders, are with his family, friends, and colleagues on this difficult day. As one of journalism's most recognizable and enduring talents, his presence will be sorely missed as we mourn his passing with the rest of the nation, indeed the world."

Russert, the Washington bureau chief for NBC News and longtime host of NBC's Meet the Press, was 58-years-old.