“Meet the Press” host David Gregory was able to hide something from show EP Betsy Fischer right up until the end of this morning’s show: “Before we go,” Gregory said, “I wanted to mention a special anniversary this morning. Our executive producer, Betsy Fischer, recently marked her 20th year with ‘Meet the Press.’ … She came of age professionally working with Tim Russert, of course, becoming his executive producer nine years ago. And then skillfully and sensitively managed a very delicate transition around here after Tim’s death, working with Tom Brokaw and now me.
“Betsy’s love of politics, her judgment and her journalistic excellence define her success. We couldn’t ask for a better leader. I speak for all my colleagues at NBC News when I say, ‘Congratulations, Bets!’ And we’ve been keeping that from her all morning long.”
After the show, Fischer tweeted, “Thx for all the nice messages-not surprised at the thoughtfulness of my colleagues today but SHOCKED they were able to commandeer the show!”