Gwen Ifill 1955-2016

I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn yesterday that PBS journalist Gwen Ifill died at age 61. Gwen had fought a private battle with cancer over the last year, giving no indication of it as she continued to appear on camera with her joyous smile and positive professional attitude. I highly recommend people watch the heartfelt tribute from The News Hour last night. My sense of personal loss takes me a bit by surprise, but I quickly realize what an excellent journalist Gwen was and what a wonderful person. If Gwen was on a show you knew it would be a worthwhile watch and you felt personally welcomed by Gwen and were joyful to be in her presence. Gwen was not able to cover the final days of this brutal Presidential election cycle and her death and absence from covering the Trump administration is a great loss for our country.