Here's some more reactions to Russert form Albany:
"I learned of his passion for public policy firsthand when we worked together in my father’s administration," said state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. "His death is a devastating loss." The elder Cuomo did not immediately return a telephone call Friday evening seeking comment.
State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno (R-Brunswick) agreed, recalling Russert’s genuine love of his hometown of Buffalo. Russert "possessed a common touch…We will always respect and appreciate Tim Russert for being a fine journalist, but most of all New Yorkers have lost a fine man."
Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-Queens) said Russert’s death left "a major void in the news reporting industry and will be difficult to fill."