Mark Knoller, a fixture in the White House press corps for more than three decades, has died at the age of 73. The longtime CBS News correspondent was widely respected across the political spectrum for his meticulous recordkeeping, sharp questions, and unwavering dedication to covering the presidency.

Knoller joined CBS News in 1988 and quickly became one of the most recognizable and trusted reporters in Washington. Over the years, he covered every administration from Gerald Ford through Donald Trump, chronicling the daily rhythms, major announcements, and quiet routines of America’s commanders-in-chief. His devotion to detail earned him the affectionate nickname “the Wikipedia of the White House,” a title that reflected his unmatched ability to recall statistics, anecdotes, and historical comparisons at a moment’s notice.

For colleagues and younger journalists, Knoller was a mentor as much as a reporter. He took pride in his work not only as a broadcaster but also as an archivist of presidential life. Whether it was tallying the number of press conferences, cataloging overseas trips, or noting the hours presidents spent aboard Air Force One, Knoller maintained records that became invaluable resources for newsrooms, historians, and even White House staffers themselves. His data-driven reporting offered a unique lens into the workings of the presidency, blending precision with context in a way few could replicate.

Knoller’s style of journalism was rooted in persistence and patience. He understood the value of showing up, day after day, no matter how routine the briefing or how scripted the event. Over time, this consistency built both trust and authority. Presidents knew him by name, and fellow reporters often relied on him for confirmation of facts. Even outside the press room, Knoller was known for his humor, collegiality, and willingness to share his encyclopedic knowledge of White House history.

In 2020, CBS News laid off Knoller in a wave of restructuring, a decision that sparked outrage among his peers and prompted an outpouring of support across social media. Though his formal role at the network ended, Knoller continued his reporting and commentary, particularly on Twitter, where his steady stream of statistics and insights kept followers informed about the inner workings of the presidency. His digital presence expanded his influence to new generations who may never have watched a White House press briefing but came to rely on his clear-eyed reporting online.

Knoller’s death marks the passing of not only a veteran journalist but also a chronicler of presidential history. Few reporters managed to blend objectivity, accuracy, and institutional memory with the same degree of dedication. His work stands as a reminder of the importance of rigorous, fact-based reporting in holding power to account and preserving the historical record.

As tributes pour in from colleagues, politicians, and admirers, Mark Knoller is remembered not just for the stories he told, but for the countless details he preserved — the small numbers, schedules, and milestones that, when woven together, form the larger narrative of the American presidency. In an age of fleeting headlines, Knoller’s commitment to precision ensured that history was not only reported, but remembered.