Daschle was taken aback by the reversal of protocol, finding it gracious. Despite being new in his position, Daschle was touched that Dole insisted on coming to his office instead of the other way around. Dole's reply, showcasing his wit and directness, exemplified his personality. This anecdote serves as a reminder of Dole's straightforward approach and values from his upbringing in Kansas. Throughout the next 35 years, spanning his time in the House, Senate, and multiple unsuccessful presidential campaigns, he thrived in Washington as a skilled negotiator. While it may be cliché to look back and idealize a past era of bipartisan camaraderie in the nation's capital, there is truth to the fact that during Dole's tenure, there was a different political climate. Despite some intense partisanship, Dole made a significant impact by working across party lines to pass several bipartisan laws, including the Social Security rescue bill, Americans with Disabilities Act, and welfare system overhaul. One of his proudest achievements was collaborating with liberal Democrat George McGovern to reform the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps. They continued collaborating on nutrition issues even after leaving the Senate. Senator Patrick Leahy, a friend of Dole, emphasized the importance of working together and keeping promises. He mentioned the strong bond between George Mitchell and Dole, noting how they regularly visited each other's offices. Leahy highlighted how both senators never surprised each other and had dedicated phone lines for direct communication. This level of partnership is rare in today's political landscape. The button proved to be useful in November 1994, when the 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 not come to his office and that he would instead visit Mitchell's office, a gesture that was seen as considerate by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole was skilled at working across party lines, a concept that was more popular in his time. Dallek also pointed out that Dole was not without a strong political stance. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House known for his role in creating Washington's era of partisan conflict, revealed that he collaborated closely with Dole to pass tax cuts and block President Bill Clinton's universal health care plan. In a recent interview, Gingrich drew comparisons between Dole and current Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, both skilled tacticians with a knack for achieving their goals. Despite their effective partnership, 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 on the Senate floor expressing his frustration. He stated that it was time to put an end to the situation, as he found it to be ridiculous. In Washington, Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple, representing the city's institutions. Dole became a symbol of World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying an era of dignity and honor. He played a significant role in the creation of 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, Dole left the Senate after serving for over twenty-five years to run for president amidst a changing political landscape in Washington. Gingrich was influential, and Clinton faced impeachment for his affair with Monica Lewinsky, adding to the growing partisan tensions. When Dole, the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader, announced his departure, the traditional practices of the Capitol were still observed. Leahy recalled that almost every Democratic senator was present on the floor that day. Despite Dole's decision to run against Bill Clinton, all senators stood and applauded after his speech.