Daschle was struck by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office, despite Daschle being the junior person in the job. Dole's witty remark about being able to decide when the meeting is over when he visits Daschle's office exemplified his no-nonsense manner. This story serves as a reminder of Bob Dole's Washington, where he brought his prairie values and straightforward approach after arriving in 1961. Throughout the next 35 years, including his time in the House, Senate, and unsuccessful presidential campaigns, he thrived in a Washington environment that suited his skills as a negotiator. While it may be cliché to look back fondly on a past era in Washington when politicians from different parties clashed during the day but socialized at night, there was indeed partisanship during Dole's time in Congress. However, it is undeniable that the atmosphere was different, and the results are clear: Dole, both as a senator and as the Republican leader, worked across party lines to pass bipartisan legislation such as the Social Security rescue bill, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and welfare reform. One of his proudest achievements was collaborating with liberal Democrat George McGovern to improve the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. After leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick J Leahy spoke about the strong working relationship between George J Mitchell Jr and Dole, who would frequently visit each other's offices. They had a high level of trust and communication, with dedicated phone lines on their desks for direct communication. Leahy noted that this level of cooperation and trust is rare in today's political climate. The button proved to be useful in November 1994, when Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who had not run for reelection, requested that Dole be informed of his visit to congratulate him. Dole responded quickly, insisting that Mitchell should not have to make the effort and that he would instead go to Mitchell's office. This gesture was seen as considerate and respectful by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled in an era when bipartisanship was valued, understanding the importance of working with politicians from different parties. Dallek also noted that despite his conservative ideology, Dole was skilled at collaboration. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House known for his role in increasing partisan conflict in Washington, revealed that he collaborated with Dole to pass tax cuts and defeat President Bill Clinton's health care plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich compared Dole to current Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, stating that they both excel tactically in the Senate and are skilled at both obstructing and advancing legislation. Despite their successful partnership, Dole could not fully support Gingrich's confrontational approach. In 1995, when Gingrich and House Republicans caused a government shutdown by refusing to pass federal spending bills, Dole expressed his frustration on the Senate floor, stating that the situation had become ridiculous. Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple in Washington, symbolizing the city's institutions. Dole was a symbol of World War II and the Greatest Generation, representing a time of dignity and honor. He was instrumental in creating the World War II Memorial on the National Mall and frequently greeted veterans there. Dallek, the historian, described Dole as a representation of American values, coming from the heartland and embodying shared values. In 1996, after over 25 years in the Senate, Dole left to run for president amidst a changing Washington with Gingrich's influence and Clinton's impeachment over the Monica Lewinsky affair adding to partisan tensions. However, despite being the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader, when Dole went to the chamber to announce his departure, the traditional customs of the Capitol remained unchanged. Leahy recalled that nearly every Democratic senator was present on the floor that day. Despite Dole's plan to run against Bill Clinton, after he finished his speech, all senators, regardless of party affiliation, stood and applauded him.