Bob Dole at 97: A reminder of what America, at its best, can be

Former Senator Bob Dole — the most important politician in Kansas history — turned 97 Wednesday. We wish him the best.

Dole was, and is, a conservative. At the peak of his political power, in the 1980s and 1990s, he gleefully skewered Democrats, fought a few Republicans, demanded accountability.

Yet his grievous World War II injuries have always given him a unique view of the world. He protected the rights of the disabled. He fought for the food stamp program. He saved Social Security.

He rejected thoughtless arguments favored by talk shows and cable news.

In 1996, accepting the GOP presidential nomination, he said this: “If there’s anyone who has mistakenly attached themselves to our party in the belief that we are not open to citizens of every race and religion, then let me remind you — tonight this hall belongs to the party of Lincoln. And the exits, which are clearly marked, are for you to walk out of as I stand this ground without compromise.”

Bob Dole’s life has been one of grace, respect and dignity, qualities that have all but disappeared from our politics. We hope his birthday is a reminder of what our country, at its best, can be.

This story was originally published July 22, 2020 at 3:18 PM.