Some thoughts on young Luke Skywalker...

[aquamarina]

First and no disrespect to the Russert family but the fact that this young man has ascended the MSNBC corporate ladder at light speed just because he was raised in the Tim Russert household, which somehow makes him qualified to be a roving news reporter is the same argument that the McCain campaign is making about Sarah Palin - that she is an expert in Russian affairs because of that country's proximity to the State of Alaska or she is an expert in energy because her husband has worked on the BP gas pipeline or that she is qualified to be Commander in Chief because she "oversees" the Alaska National Guard, etc. I simply cannot stand it when people are promoted or elevated to expert simply because of who their parents are or who they know or where they live.

What ever happened to the concept of hiring the best qualified person? Either MSNBC created a new position specifically for young Russert based on sentimental reasons or there probably are alot of young journalists who have had their eyes opened to just how the MSM really operates.

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

1. I agree.

And I think that this hire based on sympathy went too far.

[crimsonblue]

2. we've never lived in a meritocracy

it's always been nepotism. It's not your skill, it's who you know.

[BuyingThyme]

3. Intelligence ties tend to run in the family.

[Stop Cornyn]

4. Russert's a brand name. MSNBC is selling a product. Brand names sell better than generic. That's all

[rvablue]

5. I went to journalism school 7 years ago...

and not a single person I know has gotten even close to the national level yet....just doesn't happen. Usually takes several moves from one market to a larger one before the major networks will even consider you as seasoned enough (not including FOX, which only requires a brainwashing indoctrination prior to going on air!!0