Biden pays tribute to late journalist Howard Fineman

President Biden on paid tribute Thursday to veteran journalist Howard Fineman, who died Tuesday of pancreatic cancer.

“Great journalists hold a mirror up to the Nation to reveal the good, the bad, and the truth of who we are as Americans. For four decades, Howard Fineman was one of the great journalists of our time,” Biden said in a statement. “His career covered much of mine, and throughout the debates over big issues and historic campaigns, I respected his reporting and insights whether I agreed or disagreed with him.”

Fineman, 75, was an analyst for NBC and MSNBC and spent three decades working for Newsweek and then worked at HuffPost.

Biden honored Fineman for believing that “all journalism is personal” and understanding “the fundamental role of journalism in our democracy is to illuminate, educate, and shed light.”

The president also noted that Fineman was a respected voice in journalism and was widely respected by other journalists.

“With his focus on the facts and ability to tell a great story, it’s no surprise why Howard was a trusted and respected voice for millions of Americans, and true friend and mentor to countless colleagues,” Biden said.

The president said him and first lady Jill Biden send their love to Fineman’s wife, Amy Nathan, and children, Nick and Meredith.

“Above all, in the decades we knew each other, it was clear that his love of family was the greatest story he ever told,” Biden said. “We know what it’s like when cancer takes away the life of a beloved family member. But no matter where you are, he will always be with you.”