Mike Quigley: “Perhaps now more than ever, we need to recognize the critical role a free press plays in our democracy and those who…”

“Perhaps now more than ever, we need to recognize the critical role a free press plays in our democracy and those who play that role so well. Today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of an award-winning journalist and dedicated public servant, Elizabeth Brackett, who died on June 17, following a tragic accident. Her death is already being felt by her colleagues at WTTW, the entire Chicago journalism community, and all of the Illinois residents who have relied on her reporting for unparalleled insight into the pressing challenges that confront our Nation and our world. Working at four television stations spanning five decades, Elizabeth was an accomplished journalist and news program host who asked public officials questions that really matter. In the past, people have asked if I am afraid of a journalist who raises tough questions. The answer is no. I'm afraid of a journalist who asks the wrong questions, who doesn't know what questions to ask. Elizabeth was a journalist's journalist who knew not only what to ask, but how and why. Her thoughtful, smart, and incredibly well- researched approach made us all better at our jobs. After retiring from her full-time position at ``Chicago Tonight'' in 2014, Elizabeth continued to contribute to the network primarily on environmental topics, such as the health of the lakes in which she frequently swam.…”