a younger and pseudo-hipper version of Russert, i.e. always seeking out and trying to "get" people on their weaknesses, real and made-up, and make them look bad. Less about substance and issues, more about he said/she said gossipy bullcrap.

Unless, of course, he's interviewing a Publican, in which case he's usually more solicitous (unless that Pub is on the outs, in which case watch out). A key member of The Village, he knows who actually still runs it and is not about to go out on a limb and endanger his standing in it by, um, actually doing his job.

Totally emblematic of what's wrong with journalism and punditry these days, all "gotcha", horse race and superficialities, running with dominant memes and CW narratives, kissing up to power players and kicking down perceived outsiders. Not a shred of courage, decency or professionalism. Par for the course these days.