Just thought I’d write this brief post to note the passing of former White House press secretary Tony Snow over the weekend. Although I was aware that he had been ill with cancer, I guess I did not realize how bad it was until this sudden news.
The press secretary position is a thankless job, and I was surprised when Tony took it after a successful career as a high profile right wing commentator and syndicated columnist. It seemed to be a tribute to the communications profession and press secretary office that he would take a such a position, which I am sure involved a substantial pay cut. I guess it was an offer (and a calling) from the President that he simply could not refuse.
Some might think that the press secretary position is just about obfuscation, spinning and mindless recitation of the party line. But watching Tony in action proved that this was not so. He brought a real flair to the role, and was more soft spoken and glib than bellicose. His journalism bona fides earned him credibility with the DC press corps. He did not hold back in dealing with the media, and often gave as good as he got.
Although I did not agree with his politics, he seemed to be a straight shooter, a genuinely nice guy, and was a tribute to the communications profession.
Goodbye Tony, we will miss you.
