Brokaw named interim 'Press' moderator

WASHINGTON, June 22 (UPI) -- News anchor Tom Brokaw will serve as interim moderator of the U.S. TV program "Meet the Press" for the next few months, NBC News President Steve Capus says.

The NBC News official said Sunday Brokaw will serve as a worthy interim successor to late "Press" host Tim Russert, who died of a heart attack June 13.

"To have someone of Tom's stature step up and dedicate himself to ensuring its ongoing success is not only a testament to his loyalty to Tim, but his enduring commitment to NBC News and our viewers," Capus said.

He said Brokaw, who anchor's NBC's nightly news program, will moderate the popular NBC Sunday series starting next weekend and his tenure will run through the 2008 presidential election, NBC reported.

"Meet the Press" will continue to broadcast from Washington once Brokaw officially takes the reins, Capus added.

Brokaw said he is equally dedicated to honoring Russert's legacy, NBC reported.

"Tim made 'Meet the Press' the center of the universe for informative and lively discussions of public affairs, particularly the exciting 2008 campaign for president, and I intend to continue that commitment to our viewers," he said.