Daschle was struck by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office despite Daschle being the junior guy. Daschle found Dole's remark witty and straight to the point, a classic example of Dole's no-nonsense manner. This story serves as a reminder of Dole's Washington, where he brought his prairie values and straightforward approach after arriving in 1961. During the 35 years that followed — including eight years in the House, 27 in the Senate, and three unsuccessful attempts at the presidency — he worked in a city that suited his skills as a negotiator. While it may sound cliché to look back fondly on a past era in Washington when politicians from different parties sparred during the day and socialized at night, the climate during Dole's time in the Capitol was indeed different. Despite the presence of partisanship, some of which was as bitter as it is today, the facts show that Dole, both as a senator and as the leader of the Republican party from 1985 to 1996, collaborated across party lines to pass bipartisan legislation. This included bills to save Social Security, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and a welfare system overhaul. One of his proudest achievements was working with George McGovern, a liberal Democrat from South Dakota, to reform the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as food stamps. They continued collaborating on nutrition issues even after leaving the Senate. Senator Patrick J Leahy, a friend of Dole's, highlighted the strong working relationship between George J Mitchell Jr and Dole during their time in office. They had a close bond and would frequently visit each other's offices. Leahy also mentioned that they both had special phone lines on their desks for direct communication. This level of cooperation and trust between politicians is rare in today's political landscape. The button proved useful in November 1994 when Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who was not seeking reelection, asked for Dole to be informed that he planned to congratulate him in person. Dole replied quickly, saying he would instead come to Mitchell's office to avoid him making the trip. This gesture was seen as thoughtful and respectful by Mitchell and his team, reflecting a time when bipartisanship was valued in politics. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole was skilled at working with politicians from both parties, despite his conservative beliefs. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House who is known for his role in increasing partisan conflict in Washington, discussed his collaboration with Dole on tax cuts and defeating President Bill Clinton's health care plan. Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Mitch McConnell, noting their tactical skills and ability to both obstruct and achieve goals. Despite their effective teamwork, Dole did not fully support Gingrich's confrontational approach. When Gingrich and House Republicans refused to pass federal spending bills, causing the government to shut down in 1995, Dole spoke out on the Senate floor, expressing his frustration. He believed it was time to put an end to the situation, stating that it had become ridiculous in his opinion. In Washington, Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple who represented the city's institutions. Robert Dole symbolized World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying an earlier time of dignity and honor. He played a significant role in the creation of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and often greeted veterans there. In the words of historian Dallek, Dole was seen as a representation of American values, coming from the heartland and embodying shared beliefs. After over 25 years in the Senate, Dole left to run for president in 1996 during a period of significant change in Washington, with Gingrich's influence on the rise and Clinton facing impeachment over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky, leading to increased political divisions. However, when Dole, who was the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader at the time, went to the chamber to announce his departure, the traditional customs of the Capitol were still observed. Leahy recalled that nearly every Democratic senator was present on the floor that day. Despite Dole's intention to run against Bill Clinton, after he finished his speech, all senators stood and applauded him.