Daschle was pleasantly surprised by the reversal of protocol when Bob Dole insisted on coming to his office instead of the other way around. Dole's witty and straightforward response exemplified his no-nonsense approach, reflecting his Kansas upbringing and values. Throughout the next 35 years, spanning time in the House, Senate, and multiple presidential campaigns, Bob Dole thrived in Washington as a skilled deal maker. While there was certainly partisanship during his time in the Capitol, Dole was known for reaching across party lines to achieve bipartisan successes, including passing legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act and welfare reform. One of his most notable collaborations was with liberal Democrat George McGovern to reform the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Even after leaving the Senate, they continued to collaborate on nutrition issues. Senator Patrick Leahy, who considered Dole a friend, praised their commitment to working together and keeping their promises. Leahy also highlighted the strong relationship between George Mitchell and Dole during their time in the Senate, noting how they would frequently visit each other's offices. Leahy mentioned that both Mitchell and Dole trusted each other and never surprised one another. Additionally, they had dedicated phone lines on their desks for direct communication. The button proved useful in November 1994 when Republicans regained the majority. Mitchell, who was not seeking reelection, wanted to congratulate Dole and requested to visit his office. Dole replied quickly, insisting on visiting Mitchell instead, which was seen as a kind and considerate gesture by Mitchell and his team. According to presidential historian Robert Dallek, Dole excelled at working with politicians from both parties, reflecting a time when bipartisanship was valued in politics. This is not to suggest that Dole did not hold strong conservative beliefs. Newt Gingrich, the former Republican speaker of the House, is known for his role in introducing partisan warfare in Washington. He worked closely 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, noting their tactical skills and ability to get things done. However, 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 expressed his frustration on the Senate floor. He believed the situation had become ridiculous and urged for it to end. In Washington, Dole and his wife, Elizabeth Dole, were viewed as a powerful couple representing the city's institutions. Dole symbolized World War II and the Greatest Generation, embodying dignity and honor from a bygone era. He played a key 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 America with his roots in the heartland and his embodiment of shared values. Dole left the Senate in 1996 after serving for over 25 years to pursue a presidential campaign during a time of political change in Washington, with Gingrich's influence and Clinton's impeachment over the Monica Lewinsky scandal adding to growing partisan tensions. When Dole, who was the Senate's longest-serving Republican leader, announced his departure in a speech at the chamber, the traditional ways of the Capitol were still evident. Despite his decision to run against Bill Clinton, Democratic senators gathered on the floor to listen to him speak. After he finished, they all stood and applauded him.