Cokie Roberts, renowned political commentator and veteran journalist, dies at 75
Veteran journalist, political commentator and author, Cokie Roberts, has reportedly died at the age of 75. Roberts' demise was announced on Tuesday morning by ABC News, which cited her family confirming the news.
Her family, in a statement, said: "We will miss Cokie beyond measure, both for her contributions and for her love and kindness." Reports state that the acclaimed journalist, who struggled with breast cancer, died from complications concerning the disease.
Roberts, who was a frequent contributor to 'This Week' with David Brinkley, worked in television for more than 40 years. She started her career with stints at NPR and CBS News, and eventually anchored 'This Week' alongside Sam Donaldson from 1996-2002. She also served as ABC's chief congressional analyst. Reports state that ABC News broke its programming on Tuesday morning to inform its viewers of Roberts' demise.
ABC News president James Goldston reportedly sent a note on Tuesday morning to his staffers announcing Roberts death, and said that she was a "true pioneer for women in journalism."
Goldston added: "Cokie was well-regarded for her insightful analysis of politics and policy in Washington, DC., countless newsmaking interviews, and, notably, her unwavering support for the generations of young women – and men – who would follow her in her footsteps. She will be dearly missed. Cokie’s kindness, generosity, sharp intellect and thoughtful take on the big issues of the day made ABC a better place and all of us better journalists. Please take a moment today to remember an exceptional reporter and remarkable friend."
Roberts, who published six books in her lifetime, also won "every major award in journalism," Goldston stated in his note." Cokie was named one of the 50 greatest women in the history of broadcasting by the American Women in Radio and Television, and the Library of Congress declared her a ‘Living Legend’ in 2008, making her one of the very few Americans ever honored."
The acclaimed journalist is survived by her husband Steven V. Roberts, her children Lee Roberts and Rebecca Roberts, her grandchildren Regan, Hale and Cecilia Roberts and Claiborne, Jack and Roland Hartman.