Bob Dole

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Bob Dole

Robert Joseph Dole (July 22, 1923 – December 5, 2021) was an American politician and attorney who represented Kansas in the United States Senate from 1969 to 1996. He was the Republican leader of the Senate during the final 11 years of his tenure, including three non-consecutive years as Senate Majority Leader. Dole was the Republican presidential nominee in the 1996 United States presidential election, but lost to incumbent President Bill Clinton. He was also the vice-presidential nominee in the 1976 United States presidential election as President Gerald Ford's running mate, but they lost to Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale.

Early Life and Education

Dole was born in Russell, Kansas, to Bina M. (née Talbott) and Doran Ray Dole. He attended the University of Kansas, where he played for the Kansas Jayhawks football team. His education was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the United States Army and was seriously wounded in combat in Italy. After the war, he completed his education at the University of Arizona and Washburn University.

Political Career

Dole began his political career by serving in the Kansas House of Representatives from 1951 to 1953. He then served as the Russell County Attorney before being elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1960. He served in the House until 1969, when he was elected to the Senate.

Senate Career

In the Senate, Dole was known for his work on agricultural and nutrition issues, as well as his advocacy for veterans and the disabled. He played a key role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Dole was also a strong supporter of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Presidential Campaigns

Dole sought the Republican presidential nomination in 1980 and 1988 but was unsuccessful. He finally secured the nomination in 1996 but was defeated by incumbent President Bill Clinton. Dole's campaign was noted for its emphasis on fiscal conservatism and a strong national defense.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from the Senate, Dole remained active in public life, authoring several books and serving on various boards and commissions. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1997 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2018. Dole passed away on December 5, 2021, at the age of 98.

Related Pages

• United States Senate
• Republican Party (United States)
• 1996 United States presidential election
• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• Presidential Medal of Freedom
• Congressional Gold Medal