WASHINGTON — Many politicians, lawmakers and veterans paid tribute to former Sen. Bob Dole on Thursday. Here’s a sampling of what they said.
“With his passing, the Senate has lost a great champion. Senator Dole fought for our veterans in the Senate, and he represented our country with dignity and honor. We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Elizabeth, and his son, Eric, and the entire Dole family.” — Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
“Bob Dole brought honor and dignity to this institution and its service members. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Dole family, and I join them in honoring the life of one of our nation’s finest.” — Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth, Ben, and Eric and the entire Dole family during this difficult time.” — Sen. John Cornyn.
“I join the entire country in mourning the passing of former Senator Bob Dole. Bob put the needs of veterans and the well-being of our service members above himself. He was a man of vision, a man of dignity, and a man of great honor. Bob was an American hero and my friend, and it’s a loss that we should all share.” — Senator Johnny Isakson.
“Like so many men and women, I got to know Bob Dole at a pivotal time in his life and I got to admire his fierce sense of purpose. At this time of loss and reflection, I share Senator Dole’s deep and abiding love of his wife, Elizabeth, and the proud service of their children, Ben and Eric. My deepest sympathy to all of them and the entire Dole family.” — Rep. Scott Taylor.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Senator Bob Dole. He was a friend of mine. I recall first meeting Bob Dole and his wife Elizabeth at a meeting with the presidential candidates. As I left, I told them that his record on veterans and our military will live on. On behalf of my family, I extend my deepest sympathies to the Dole family at this time.” — Rep. Mark Sanford.
“It was always a pleasure to have Senator Bob Dole sitting next to me on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He will be deeply missed.” — Rep. Jeff Miller.
“Bob Dole was a dear friend of mine. He will be missed, but his legacy of leadership, service and dedication will continue to shine bright. My thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth, Ben, and Eric. I hope those of us who knew Bob will rededicate ourselves to protecting those who serve as he did in the Senate.” — Sen. Heidi Heitkamp.
“Bob Dole was an American hero. He was a true friend and a humble man of integrity. He fought for his fellow Americans in his 32 years of service to our nation. Bob Dole is adored by people across the nation and he deserved every bit of the respect he received. Bob Dole is the best choice for anything — an honorable man and a dear friend,” said Sen. John Thune.
“Senator Dole was a source of inspiration. He did not only make a significant impact on the people he served in the Senate, but was also a hard-working and dedicated soldier in World War II and Korea. The Medal of Honor was a great honor that Senator Dole earned through sacrifice and service. In life, Senator Dole exemplified the true meaning of courage. Our country was blessed to know him and we will all miss him,” said Sen. Bill Cassidy.
“Senator Dole was as honest and straightforward as they come. I’m proud to have known him, and his world-class defense team worked on several projects at this facility, which he dedicated. He was a gentleman, a good friend, and a true patriot,” said Sen. Thom Tillis.
“I hope Senator Dole’s family, particularly his children and wife Elizabeth, can find comfort in the great legacy he leaves behind. Senator Dole is one of the finest American heroes of our time. I will miss him greatly,” said Rep. Billy Long.
“Senator Dole was a dedicated family man and a warrior. He knew what it felt like to wear the uniform of the United States and will never be forgotten. I am proud to call him a dear friend,” said Rep. Kevin Cramer