Tuesday, December 30, 2008

OH SNAP!


Wait for this baby to load and get yourself over to 6:36 to see why former U.S. National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski made us blow milk though our nose this morning.

Brilliant.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Merry Christmas Mr. NBC Chief White House Correspondent

Nice going Chuck.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

"I'm not Tim"

Thursday, December 4, 2008

VCT EXCLUSIVE:
Source of Gregory Leak Revealed

According to an article in The Huffington Post, hackles are up on several executives over at NBC due to the leak surrounding David Gregory's ascension to the Meet The Press throne. What was most disturbing about this article was the scurrilous accusation that Chuck Todd was in some way responsible for the leak.

We here at Viva Chuck Todd found this libelous salvo beyond the pale of belief and responded accordingly by mobilizing our entire editorial staff late last night to get to the bottom of who exactly is responsible for the leak and hopefully inoculate The Chuck from any further blame. Our findings as of this morning were both shocking and disturbing.

According to our reporting, it appears that not one, but several people were responsible for the Gregory leak. One of the most surprising aspects of this story is that the leak came not from the news division, but from the entertainment division. Their apparent motive was a complete takeover of the news division paving the way for a revamp where a variety/game-show format would be pursued. According to multiple anonymous sources, the leader of this group was germ-phobe and host of NBC's Deal or No Deal, Howie Mandel. Sources tell us that Mandel has always had an eye on the Sunday morning news show as an excellent vehicle to parlay the success of Deal or No Deal.

The Viva Chuck Todd editorial offices have also come into possession of Mandel's notes where he sketched out changing the Meet The Press set to resemble the Deal or No Deal set where political newsmakers would sit before the 26 terraced briefcase-schlepping models and be directed to get their questions by calling on a girl one at a time who would then open the case and read the guest a probing well-researched news question or in some cases a light-hearted general interest question submitted by a viewer. The Mandel notes also revealed that back-channel arrangements had already been made to have former U.N. Ambassador John Bolton be the first guest of the new show along with a whole new round table discussion group consisting of Ben Affleck, Star Jones, Ann Coulter and The Obama Girl. There was also to be a closing musical number planned for each show performed by cross-dressing manazon RuPaul. A musician who had been hired for show's band revealed that the first number was to be a take-off on the RuPaul hit Supermodel where the main chorus lyric "you better work!" was to be aimed towards the incoming Obama administration.

Where David Gregory fits into all of this is still unclear, but the same musician who revealed the first closing number told Viva Chuck Todd that Gregory would of most likely been retained after the "coup" for his dancing and comedic talents. Over the years, Gregory has displayed an uncanny flair for R&B interpretive dance and impersonations.

While Mandel was the front man for this cadre, the true puppet master was acclaimed West Wing creator, Aaron Sorkin. Sorkin apparently was still harboring ill will towards NBC for the cancellation of Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and felt that this remaking of Meet The Press would be the right formula of news and entertainment he failed to capture with Studio 60. As of this morning, representatives for Mr. Sorkin were refusing comment and directed our inquiries to their legal counsel.

Shortly before press time, NBC released a statement saying that this Sunday's installation of Gregory as the new host of Meet The Press will go ahead as planned. No decisions have been made as to whether charges will be filed against Sorkin and Mandel.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

really?


Well, according to Politico.com and The Huffington Post, David Gregory is getting the MTP gig.

I'll leave the comments to all of you.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

The Last Post for Viva Chuck Todd

Bittersweet is about the only word that comes close to the feeling of today. This is the last post for Viva Chuck Todd.

I say it all in the below video, but it needs to be put in "print" just how thankful I am to all of you who made this site a joy to do everyday for the past six months. It has been a fantastic experience just in "meeting" those of you who frequented this site and made your presence known. I know personally that Chuck is forever grateful to all of you for your words of support and encouragement through this historic election season.

For the record, over 120,000 people visited Viva Chuck Todd, Chuckolyte.com and Chucktodd08.com combined in the last six months, tens of thousands of Viva Chuck Todd and Viva Rachel Maddow e-cards have been sent, there are over 350 (and counting) Chuckolyte card-holders and approximately $600 has been raised for the Tim Russert charities.

As the dust settles in our electoral process, this seemed like the logical time to sign-off and go back to what I get paid to do. With that said, there might be some posts in the future as events dictate; so be sure to sign up for updates via email using the Feedburner box to the left- but for the most part, I'm done.

This site and all related Chuck Todd sites (Chuckolyte.com and Chuck08.com) will remain live as will our spin-off site, Viva Rachel Maddow.

Before I go, special thanks need to go out to Chuck's G, Kim, Kristian, Willie Geist, Joe Scarborough, Jonathan Capehart, each and every proud Chuckolyte card holder, Ol' Man Barnacle, of course The Chuck and most importantly, Tim Russert for hiring that numbers guy from The Hotline.

Thank you all again for one hell of a fun experience.

Vaya con dios Viva Chuck Todd,

Paul Chamberlain

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

The Chuck to do the forensics of the Obama campaign in a new book

For months we've been saying that one of the best business management/political stories would be a book about the sparkling clean and efficient political machine that was the Obama campaign. Well, our wishes have been granted in a big tear-inducing way. Not only are we going to see that book, but The Chuck is a co-author.

'sniff...it's a beautiful world. More here.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Did you really think we wouldn't post this chestnut?

This classic is not only a bold endorsement of why there should be more live television, but it is also the greatest collection of verbally stunned individuals in one place. It was like you dropped hot jumper cables in a fish pond. And as usual, Ol' Man Barnacle provides the best laughs in demonstrating why he is the most underrated comic actor in history. Check out :27 in to see why.

So let's see...that's one "bullshit" for Peggy Noonan and a "f%ck you" for Scarborough. Man, when did HBO buy MSNBC?

Friday, November 7, 2008

Election Night Insanity Contest Winner:
Jessica from Redondo Beach, CA

Our Chuckolyte winner is Jessica from Redondo Beach, CA who nailed the senate races and came freakishly close on the presidential numbers. This is how she did - behold the new Nostradamus:

359 Electoral Votes for Obama (final number 364)
179 Electoral Votes for McCain (final number 173)

55% of the Popular Vote for Obama (final number 52% - 64.4M)
45% of the Popular Vote for McCain (final number 44% - 56.7M)


She aced the senate races, except in the case of Alaska. She gave it to Begich, which could be argued an technical win based on the Pyrrhic and fleeting victory of the crook that is Stevens.

Excellent job Jessica. Your bag of Chuck Todd/Cerebral Itch schwag is on it's way.

Thanks to all of you who participated.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Some magical MSNBC moments on election night


As the states began to break for Obama, the anticipation on-air was palpable. Say what you will about Uncle Chris Matthews, but he gave the most endearing and genuine little speech as to what it was going to mean to have the Obamas as our First Family. Then, the always wonderful Eugene Robinson brought the Viva Chuck Todd offices to tears speaking about telling his son that you can grow up to be president. Bishop T.D. Jakes and Congressman John Lewis added sobering and historical perspectives as history was virtually unfolding by the minute.

Also, enjoy our favorite little "pitchfork and torches" moment outside the White House.

The Chuck "signals to the pitcher" -
if you know what we're sayin'


We at the Viva Chuck Todd offices agonized about posting this one. Then we came to our senses and realized it's freakin' hilarious.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

T-minus: The Future

Ouch

"To call it a 'narrow path' would be generous at this point."

The Chuck at 9:40EST remarking on McCain's chances after the Ohio loss.

Never forget, this site exists because of him

One more Viva Chuck Todd contest


You call it on this one. Fill out the zippy form above and cross your fingers. For those of you who feel lucky, you can fax your completed form to (619) 342-7432 or email your answers to vivachucktodd@gmail.com for your chance to win a bag of Chuckolyte and Cerebral Itch schwag and be made famous on vivachucktodd.com.


Oh, and entries must be received by 5PM EST - November 4th, 2008

Monday, November 3, 2008

Captain Jean Luc Chucktodd fires up the snazzy new NBC Holodeck


I believe the operative word is SUH-WEET! Although we're knocking points off for the Obama Invesco Field set design knock-off.

John King can suck it with his Best Buy wall of flat screen TVs.

If Levar Burton ever made a cameo appearance with Norah O'Donnell on The Chuck's Holodeck, somebody would have to call an ambulance for half of the Viva Chuck Todd staff.

The Chuck's ULTIMATE state-by-state rundown

This really is an amazing article. It truly illustrates the genius that is the The Chuck. Rumor has it, he wrote the whole thing on his Blackberry while standing in line at Starbucks.

Mark Lukasiewicz shows off the latest from politics.msnbc.com



The mind boggles as to why you have all these digital references to The Chuck and the plethora of mediums in which he can be found and yet, no mention of Viva Chuck Todd. You think they would've at least included the Chuck Todd e-cards on the Decision '08 Dashboard. We have it on an extremely reliable source that Mark Lukasiewicz is a fan of Viva Chuck Todd too; so where's the love?

Sunday, November 2, 2008

The Chuck on his last pre-election Meet The Press



Is it just us or are they trying awfully hard to make it look like this election is even going to be close? The Chuck puts up the unicorn and dice landing-on-their-corners scenarios for McCain.

Affleck as Olbermann: Was this even funny?



Friday, October 31, 2008

Happy Halloween from Viva Chuck Todd




Click on the above image(s), print it out, cut it out and amaze your friends with how much of a political geek you are. Hell, anybody can dress up like Sarah Palin.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The Chuck goes all psyops on McCain and Palin



So The Chuck steps away from the hard numbers and does a little psychoanalysis of the GOP ticket. Compelling stuff. It almost looks as if Brian Williams is the tense one with the buckets of behind-the-scenes scoop The Chuck's imparting. Then again, it doesn't take Freud to say McCain looks like he's going to pull a "Bulworth".

CHUCK COUTURE:
The Chuck's personal clothier



Many of us have often wondered who did away with the blasé earth tones of The Chuck's earlier online broadcasting days; well, today the lovers of Chuck Couture got their answer.

The morning mannequin of couture, Dame Mika Brzezinski quizzed The Chuck on where he sources his snappy ensembles segueing from the Palin $150K shopping spree kerfuffle. The Chuck gladly offered up that his ensembles originate from Mario's of Seattle.



Just knowing where Chuck got his lucky aubergine silk tie makes this blog worth it - Mario's of Seattle, the official clothier of both Chuck Todd and Viva Chuck Todd

Hello my name is Dr. Chuck Todd and I've seen your test results and the news is not good


Is it fair to assume that The Chuck's now frequent pronouncements that the McCain campaign is on life-support is affecting some swing voters who respect The Chuck?

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Oh look, a lanslide's a'comin'

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Hey Scarborough, spring for some decent shoes will ya'

On a special Sunday edition of Hardball with Chris Matthews, Joe Scarborough felt wearing the appropriate footwear was not necessary while commenting on General Colin Powell's endorsement of Barack Obama.

We got your number Scarborough.

The Chuck on the Meet The Press



So in case you missed it: The Chuck tickled the Surface, McCain's screwed electorally and Scarborough was part of the round table. Yeah, Scarborough. I know, as if five days a week weren't enough.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

We're not even going to bother with a poll -
but we've got new presidential debate e-cards!

Oh, those wacky kids over at Cerebral Itch threw together some more e-cards based on the more memorable lines of tonight's debate. Enjoy (they're free).

The Chuck serving up the bad news for McCain



Oh, can he work that Microsoft Surface or what?

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

What the hell was that all about?
The Chuck takes on James Cromwell




Monday, October 13, 2008

Hey look! It's Pat Riley - Oh wait, it's The Chuck

Many of you commented on The Chuck's appearance this morning on Morning Joe. Most notably, the saucy wet look he was sportin'. Well, the senior editorial staff of Viva Chuck Todd was briefed late this afternoon on the cause of the moistened follicles.

It appears while en route to work (the NBC Washington D.C. Bureau) early this morning from his bucolic Virginia home, The Chuck caught sight of a building ablaze. He quickly responded to the sight by skillfully wrenching his black 1964 Corvette Stingray across three lanes and a grassy burm to the nearest highway exit to investigate. By the time The Chuck roared to the scene, the building was a hellish inferno. It turns out that the burning building was the Susan Lucci Home for Wayward Youths. A halfway house for teenage actors who didn't quite make it in the Baltimore theater scene and ended up on the street. The home was essentially an angel with shuttered wings helping unfortunate young soap star wannabes find a future.

Upon arriving at the scene, The Chuck was immediately recognized by law enforcement and firemen. He asked if there was anything he could do. The on-scene Fire captain, William O'Shaughnessy deferred to The Chuck. As six engines turned the full wet fury of their hoses on the building, The Chuck doffed his suit jacket, loosened his tie and bolted for the front door of the building. Minutes later, he emerged with a teen on each shoulder. He carefully handed them over to the EMT's standing by and raced back in knowing that there were more to be saved. Eight people later, The Chuck sat on the curb, soaking wet and wrapped in a blanket sipping bottled water asking Chief O'Shaughnessy if everyone was accounted for. The Chief's answer was "yes". The Chuck grabbed his jacket off of the hood of his car and was about to leave when a young girl ran up to him pleading that he rescue her puppy "Luntz". According to eyewitnesses, this young girl sank into Chuck's heaving pecs and begged that he rescue the poor dog. She admitted that the dog was significantly overweight and not that smart, but she loved him just the same. Not wasting a moment, The Chuck gently placed the girl in the arms of a county child protective services worker and sprinted for the building. As beams and embers fell like confetti, The Chuck darted from room to room calling for Luntz, the fat stupid dog. Luntz was in the bathtub of the very last room The Chuck was able to check. Scorched and soaked, The Chuck scooped up Luntz and began to head back from whence he came. It was then when the ceiling collapsed and all sources of egress were eliminated. The only way out was out a small bathroom window 25 feet above the street. The Chuck threw Luntz out the window to the fireman below where he was successfully caught. People on the street could see The Chuck begin to scramble through the small window when at the same moment a gas main blew. In a half-second the building was a cloud of splinters and orange heat. Many on the scene believed that there was no way The Chuck could've survived the blast. But to the shock of all who witnessed the pre-dawn conflagration; unexpectedly, a black Stingray squealed from the scene as quickly as it arrived.

Six minutes later, The Chuck was on-air sitting next to the lovely Andrea Mitchell speaking of the anemic McCain numbers and October surprises.

Little did any of us know that The Chuck's hair was still wet from the fire hoses and his heart was still full from saving lives, especially Luntz, the beloved stupid fat dog.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Viva Chuck Poll:
Who won the 2nd Presidential Debate?


For the sheer academic exercise, we're putting up this poll; despite knowing how most of you are going to vote on this one. Oh, with that said, those kids over at Cerebral Itch created a brand new e-card in honor of tonight's shining moment - check it out

Monday, October 6, 2008

The Chuck:
keeper of the scorecard


Hey, when Brokaw labels you twice in one day with colloquial titles - you take'em and like it.

With that said, The Chuck brought his A-game to Meet The Press this morning. Like we're shocked.

Sunday, October 5, 2008

SNL Mentions the Viva Chuck Todd/Viva Rachel Maddow V.P. Debate Drinking Game,...we think


Watch this clip and you tell us whether or not Tina Fey and the Saturday Night Live writers sent a little Gladys Wood third-grade class shout out to the Viva Chuck Todd family. We like to think so; then again, we like to think a lot of things.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

The Vice Presidential Debate:
What say you Chuckolytes?

The results are in and apparently the highly astute Chuckolyte saw through the pageant queen razzle-dazzle of Governor Palin and gave the night to Senator Biden.



Wednesday, October 1, 2008

VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE Drinking Game
brought to you by Viva Chuck Todd and Viva Rachel Maddow


You know John McCain is going to be tipping back more than a few tomorrow night, so why not join him in spirit while enjoying the most-watched Vice Presidential Debate in history. As only the
Viva Chuck Todd and Viva Rachel Maddow people could do, we've put together a drinking game complete with recipes of the official drinks for each of the candidates plus the official Rachel Maddow libation and the much-anticipated, Chuck Todd-y - the official drink of Viva Chuck Todd.

Prior to beginning the game, the group must pick an official arbiter who will make all official decisions. Their word is law.



Sarah Palin

Anytime Governor Palin says:
  • "Gosh"
  • "9-11"
  • "Y'know"
  • "Well Gwen"
  • "Islamic Fundamentalists"
  • "Russia" and/or "Pootin"
  • "Maverick"
  • "hockey mom"
  • "Joe six-pack"
everyone drinks.

If Trig is being hoisted around in the audience, take a drink.


If Trig gets a another spit-makeover by his sister or father, take 2 drinks and do the same thing to yourself.


Every time you see the "First Dude", take a drink and do a jumping chest bump with someone.

Anytime the television audience nervously giggles at a Governor Pal
in non-sequitur, everyone yells "Katie, I'd like to use my lifeline!" and drinks. Arbiter will have final say as to what qualifies, though not a hard call to make.

If Governor Palin should break down in tears and leave the stage prematurely - chug every last drop of booze in the room, doff your clothing and run naked through the neighborhood hooting in a schadenfreude-induced celebration.


Joe Biden


Anytime Senator Biden says:
  • "Aw c'mon"
  • "Malarkey"
  • "Scranton"
  • "Well Gwen"
  • "The policies of George Bush"
  • "Dick Cheney"
  • “John's a friend of mine” or a variation thereof
  • "Joe six-pack"
everyone drinks.

Anytime Senator Biden looks up to the rafters, audibly sighs OR raises his voice beyond an appropriate level out of sheer exasperation, everyo
ne drinks. Arbiter will have final say as to what qualifies, though not a hard call to make.

Anytime Senator Biden makes an inappropriate reference to Governor Palin's gender, everyone drinks. Arbiter will have final say as to what qualifies, though not a hard call to make because you probably will hear Biden's handlers slapping their foreheads and blurting "D'oh!".

Anytime Senato
r Biden makes the sign of the cross and asks for God to grant him patience, everyone drink from their partner's drink as if being given communion.

When Senator Biden looks at Governor Palin and says "Get the hell off this stage, you're an insult to the process!" or any variation thereof - chug every last drop of booze in the room, doff your clothing and run naked through the neighborhood just for the hell of it.





The Chilla from Wasilla - The official drink for Governor Palin

Scale ingredients to servings - Serve in a Mason Jar

3 oz amaretto almond liqueur
1 pint beer (preferably Midnight Sun Kodiak Brown)
2 oz Coca-Cola®

Pour the amaretto into the jar over crushed ice. Follow it up by pouring a chilled beer (Alaskan if possible). Then top it off with the Coke.


The Moji-Joe - The official drink for Senator Biden

1 1/2oz. Light Rum
1 oz. Lime Juice
1/2 Cup Delaware Punch or Hawaiian Punch
3-4 Mint leaves Club Soda

Combine lime juice, mint and punch in a Collins or highball glass.
Stir gently to bruise the mint.
Fill glass 3/4 with ice.
Add the rum.
Top with soda. Stir well.


The Perfect with a lemon twist - The official Viva Rachel Maddow drink

1.5oz sweet vermouth
1.5oz dry vermouth
lemon twist
over ice in a rocks glass


Watch Rachel personally whip this juicy bit of heaven up by clicking here


This drink is smooth and easy, as smooth and easy as “the Chuck” himself. Nothing harsh, or cloying or bitter. Just cool, baby. Smooth and cool, just like “the Chuck.”

the CHUCK TODD-Y

Fill glass with ice and add

1 oz Malibu Rum
1 oz Parrot Bay Rum
½ oz Grenadine or Crème de Almond
Top off glass with equal parts orange juice and pineapple juice.
Shake and pour into glass.

This drink was designed by Patrick - Official Viva Chuck Todd Mixologist,
who can be found in the summer months manning the spirits
at the
Dragonfly Deck Bar in Kill Devil Hills, NC


Viva Chuck Todd Lexicon Watch:
Dan Quayle-ized and Spiro Agnewed

Thanks to the drubbing Governor Palin's been getting by the press regardless of their stripe, The Chuck ingeniously gives us two new words to describe the metastatic creep that is beseiging the brand called"Sarah Palin". And with that, we give you today's Viva Chuck Todd Lexicon Watch word(s): Dan Quayle-ized / Spiro Agnewed


Dan Quayle-ized / Spiro Agnewed
Function: Adverb
Usage: colloquial
Etymology: Modern English - First coined by Charles (Chuck) Todd in St. Louis, MO circa early-21st century

1 a: a pejorative appellation given to someone who is out of their depth while seeking the second highest office in the land. Dan Quayle-ized refers to Dan Quyle, the 44th Vice President and Spiro Agnew, the 39th. Both were much-maligned by the public and the press. 1 b: A complete a-hole, moron or both

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

The New York Times on Meet The Press post-election and the influence of Brokaw

"...but it is leaning toward an ensemble of hosts that would be led by Chuck Todd, NBC’s political director, and include David Gregory, a correspondent and MSNBC anchor, according to a person who had been briefed on the proposal but was not authorized to comment, partly because the plans were not set. Like the turnover of anchors at all three network newscasts, the process of choosing a successor for Mr. Russert has been closely watched in media and political circles."

Saturday, September 27, 2008

CHUCK POLL RESULTS:
who won the debate?

Well, you voted and the results speak volumes. As well as mirror the growing consensus: Obama won - Grumpy ol' man loses.

The Chuck's early take on the Debate


"Still, count me impressed by both candidates. I know it may sound a bit pollyannish, but I thought one would not bring their "A" game or that one would get complacent and that didn't happen. There are some who believe a "draw" is better for the candidate perceived to be ahead. If that's the case, then the polls will continue their Obama drift. But I wouldn't be surprised if the polls don't move much in either direction because neither candidate gave a reason why voters ought to stop listening and make their decision now."

Read The Chuck's full take here

Thursday, September 25, 2008

A morning to remember:
This morning on Morning Joe something special happened


The crew here at the Viva Chuck Todd editorial offices bring themselves up to speed daily by scanning the latest DVR recording of the day's events that The Chuck might have been a part of. In most cases, the time viewing is spent fast-forwarding through all things not Chuck and stopping occasionally to watch something that looks like it got big laughs.

This morning's Morning Joe was a different show entirely. Just The Chuck and Scarborough alone co-hosting was a site to behold. What made it all so much better was the panoply of guests who added to the examination of the hell we all seem to be going through via the brittle economic situation. Noonan, Snowe, Herbert, Rubin, Murphy, Gibbs, Wallace, Stengel, Burnett, Haines and Zuckerman were all part of a coherent dialog that captivated for three hours. We honest to God wanted to fast-forward through something, yet the content of the show was compelling, topical and downright fascinating (Okay, Tommy Hilfiger was the off-key plunk at the end of the show). Scarborough shined as the passionate counterpoint and The Chuck served as the academic font that all who chatted went to for empirical data. The Chuck displayed a relaxed inquisitive nature not seen prior. He questioned everyone, especially James Rubin, former Clinton Administration Deputy Secretary of State cogently and respectfully. On the inverse, he was also often asked questions of by guests who really wanted to know the score.

From this office's perspective it was compelling TV; for those of you that saw it, what did you think?

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

NEW VIVA CHUCK TODD e-CARDS:
giving comedy props to the Surface

We realized that we haven't posted any new e-cards lately despite the damn things being a unmitigated hit. So, taking into account everyone's fascination with the new Microsoft Surface toy The Chuck gets to play with and the sexual overtones of The Chuck fondling something nightly, we thought these cards were the perfect marriage of the two...enjoy.

Not Cool:
Matthews disses The Chuck


One might have noticed The Chuck becoming extra passionate the last few days as a result of the tumultuous polling landscape and the circumstances wreaking havoc on them.

Today's NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll was the last shoe to drop in the pronouncement that the McCain campaign is listing and needs to right itself. The "Hail Mary" of today's campaign cessation announcement and debate reschedule was certainly chum for the news sharks and polling companies.

With that said, this kind of action means only one thing to The Chuck: constant NBC/MSNBC exposure. Every hour, The Chuck was there. He was on Morning Joe. He was on Hardball. He was on The Nightly News with Brian Williams. The man was a machine raising salient points and bringing the "gold standard" of polls (NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll) to the public.

But something happened today that could only be summarized as "not cool". On Hardball with Chris Matthews, The Chuck brought his game and was exceptionally forceful and expressive in his presentation of the facts. Obviously off his game, Matthews not only did his usual verbal toe-stepping on The Chuck, but cut to a phone-in McCain spokesperson without so much as a thank you to The Chuck. It was abrupt, inappropriate and rude. The Chuck is now in a position to bring some serious gravitas to the party and to cast him off without so much as a "thank you" is done at one's peril.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Set design inspired by the 70's

This morning The Chuck suffered the greatest of indignities as he stood in front of the fugliest set known to broadcast news.

It was a slap-dash pile of taffeta and lighting girders that barely covered the back walls of the studio. The stark contrast to the state-of-the-art technology of the Microsoft Surface was not lost on Scarborough and Mike Murphy who ridiculed The Chuck accordingly.

Who could blame them actually? It was hideous and nowhere near the quality of old Laugh-In sets. But despite the huge liability, The Chuck persevered as the picture of professionalism and made it through as if he never looked over his shoulder.

Nice Job on Countdown Shuster

Hats off to you on filling in for Uncle Keith.

There's something about this guy we like (aside from the fact that he's a Chuckolyte button-carrying member).

Monday, September 22, 2008

CHUCK COUTURE: Jonathan Capehart dons the bow tie and the crowd goes Wilde

In a bold and courageous move this morning, Jonathan Capehart of The Washington Post chose to out-George Will George Will by donning a rather, how shall we say, flamboyant polka-dotted bow tie that lacked the necessary rigidity to fend off the comments of those who would never dream of going where Mr. Capehart went in his tie choice.

It was by all accounts a calm morning despite the scurrilous election, still-to-be-determined averted financial collapse and the metaphorical end credits of Pax Americana. So none of us were prepared for what Capehart was wearing. We have all become somewhat innured to the double, triple, quadruple Windsors the young wordsmith has laid on us; but even the most seasoned Capehart fan did not see this coming - a bow tie!

It was a gloriously floppy dark slate blue number that provided a field for white dots to prance upon like jewels on blue velvet. It was tied in a knot that was structured yet fashionably laissez-faire at the ends. Capehart batted away comments with the confidence of someone who revels in being a trendsetter, despite that trend being somewhat obscured by decades. Although the dichotomy of Scarborough letting loose with a snide acknowledgment while wearing a skinny Sears tie that could only be riffed via a "Ryan Seacrest" reference, was rich indeed.

Hats off to you young Capehart. Our senses are now heightened to what comes next. Know this; we look forward to your Ascot next week.

filed by Viva Chuck Todd fashion editor, Devon O'Toole

Sunday, September 21, 2008

FREE VIVA CHUCK TODD RINGTONE
Decision 08 Theme Music

Okay, we've really outdone ourselves on this one (right click - save link as).

We feel especially proud that we beat MSNBC to the punch, because we know all Chuckolytes and Maddites are going to install this pronto.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Q&A Cafe w/ Carol Joynt: THE CHUCK

All political geeks who do not have the good fortune of living in or near Washington D.C are deprived the phenomenal political/entertainment watering hole known as Nathan's. Every week Nathan's puts on "'The Q&A Cafe with Carol Joynt' - a talk show taped live before an audience at Nathans Restaurant in Georgetown, Washington, DC. It's open to anyone who wants to attend". To see just how much of a Georgetown institution this place is, check this out.

This past week they hosted The Chuck. Emoting his usual affable and casual demeanor, dozens of lucky Chuckolytes got to enjoy The Chuck's nuggets of wisdom up close and personal. The interview in it's entirety is fun, intimate and in-depth. We especially liked the first five or so minutes of the interview where Carol talks about Viva Chuck Todd and Chuckolyte.com and gets The Chuck to comment. It was bittersweet in the fact that we like to get mentioned, but man, do we hate to see The Chuck squirm over us.

So with any further interruption, Q&A Cafe w/ Carol Joynt: Chuck Todd



And most importantly, A big Viva Chuck Todd gracias to Carol Joynt for the shout out to us Chuckolytes - your membership card is on it's way ;)

Q&A Cafe w/ Carol Joynt: THE CHUCK
a Chuckolyte's perspective

In between manning Microsoft Surface, First Read and the slate of appearances on NBC/MSNBC the Chuck found time to head over to Georgetown for a little salmon and grilling by Carol Joynt in her local Q&A. The man hasn’t slept since February but he still found time for this and it is why we adore him!

Chuckolytes will be thrilled to know that The Chuck is beloved and respected here at home as he is out on the Internets.

For the Viva Chuck Todd crew, I believe you have officially outdone the likes of The Drudge Report and Page Six of the NY Post in importance. Carol Joynt kicked off her interview not with the latest Gallup Polls, the Sarah Palin factor or how the Economic crisis was shifting the election – no, no with her priorities straight Ms. Joynt led the afternoon’s Q&A with VCT and the Chuckolytes (I swear we should have tour t-shirts). The Chuck’s response – “I keep my head down – they’ve been very kind…I just don’t want them to go negative”.

The interview covered a multitude of topics in all too brief an hour. Highlights included, The Chuck’s time at Hotline and his 15 years of work to wanting to kill Scarborough over the lame nickname “Chucky T”. Here is a sampling of The Chuck’s brilliance:

On Hotline: “It was way ahead of it’s time… a lighthouse for politics… I figured out how to read it on my Kindle.”

On the gossip about NBC/MSNBC in fighting: “There are a lot more untruths out there then truths."

On Russert: “I lost my father when I was sixteen. I feel the same way about Tim everyday when I have this list of 75,000 conversations I wish I could have with him.”

On Russert’s power at the network: “When someone passes on, there's always a mythology of the power someone had. Maybe what made Tim powerful within the news network is that he had more power than he ever used.”

On becoming the host of Meet the Press: “There’s no right answer to that question… To tell you the truth I don’t know if I want the job. Who wants to be the idiot who follows in Tim's shoes. Not only that, but you have to follow in Tim's shoes and now Tom [Brokaw]'s shoes.”

On the Internet: “The Internet is begging to be organized.”

On Bill Gates: “Steve Jobs is always going to be cooler than you, get over it”

On the rise of Cable News: “And then came the gift to cable news – Monica Lewinsky.” [as what catapulted cable news to prominence].

On those Polls: “Polls are going to be wrong this cycle...[because] it is going to be the percentage of the electorates [that determines the outcome].

By far The Chuck’s take on what makes the 2008 election historic is what sets him apart from the rest of the pack. “This is a marker election, not because of the first black nominee of a major party, or because of the first woman on a Republican national ticket, but because both of them are post baby boomers. 2008 shuts a door on baby boomers. The baby boom generation is going to have to do some soul searching about what happened. It should be Tom Brokaw’s next book. How this whole generation that ran the sports world, ran Wall Street, ran the business world… Baby boomers failed us as leaders.”

With modesty, humility, intellect and a dash of sarcasm The Chuck deftly sustained the sometimes intrusive questioning of the interviewer (who at times I just wanted to smack for interrupting him mid sentence). Although Joynt does deserve some props for coining a new turn of phrase – in referring to a fellow journalist’s changing his facial hair Joynt stated, “When I saw him the other day it was completely redone as a Chuck Todd”. That’s right folks; we have the beard, the goatee and now, The Chuck Todd – tell your neighbors.

The interview came to an end to which Chuck simply said, “This was almost fun.” And with that he paused briefly for photos and quickly dashed off in a cab back to Nebraska Ave.

filed by Viva Chuck Todd Senior Field Corespondent, Dalissa

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Kitties, Eunuchs and bromance:
Something was in the air this morning on
Morning Joe

At a press conference held earlier this morning by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, it was announced that a large-scale gas leak of nitrous oxide (aka "laughing gas") throughout the NBC studios at Rockefeller Plaza was responsible for today's silly and at times ridiculous behavior of the Morning Joe cast.


Minutes after Morning Joe ended it's broadcast, several HAZMAT teams were deployed throughout the building to locate and determine the severity of the leak. It was discovered that not one, but several tanks of nitrous oxide were being discharged throughout the building's ventilation system. Authorities are still trying to determine how such large amounts of the euphoric gas found it's way into 30 Rock, but in a Viva Chuck Todd exclusive, several NBC employees who on the condition of anonymity, claimed that several tanks of the gas were being used by Countdown with Keith Olbermann crew members to help them tolerate and laugh at Olbermann's jokes; providing the familiar off-camera chortles frequently heard on his show. It was also claimed by these sources that the gas was also being used by Rachel Maddow to help her get through the Kent Jones Just Enough segment at the end of her new show. Although the investigation is still in it's infancy, fingers already point to Al Roker as the key suspect for bringing the gas to 30 Rock. It appears that Roker has been using the gas for years on The Today Show cast and crew in getting them to think he was the least bit funny - a technique he adapted from his predecessor, Willard Scott.

The behavior that tipped the scales and led many viewers to flood the New York City 911 system with calls was the moment Harold Ford Jr. began to smile. Concern amongst viewers reached it's zenith when Ford actually tried to crack a joke. The uncharacteristically ebullient mood was not isolated to Ford. Ol' Man Barnacle and Our Man Willie sat uncomfortably close to each other throughout the entire show. The proximity of their chairs and the effect of the noxious gas was apparently too much for the men, culminating in a Bush/Merkel-esque shoulder rub and a celebratory on-air embrace. Earlier, Barnacle had admitted to being a "cat man" and someone who keeps his cat in his car's glove compartment while he shuffles around Home Depot in his off-hours. Another "canary in the coal mine" was Mika Brzezinski, who herself displayed effects of the gas. In her case though, she was serious, introspective and constantly trying to bring order to the group. Brzezinski is currently undergoing tests at New York-Presbyterian Hospital as doctors are tying to determine why laughing gas would have the opposite effect on her. Amazingly, Scarborough himself appeared to be unaffected, displaying the bi-polar tendencies usually seen by viewers.

In a related story, authorities were also dispatched to the CNBC studios at the New York Stock Exchange where International Superstar, Erin Burnett herself appeared to be a tad loopy and uttered the unfortunate term "eunuch" on-air raising suspicions that she too, was affected by the gas.

It is important to note that The Chuck was unharmed and the Washington D.C. bureau was declared safe by local authorities.