The LuLac Edition #4, 638, December 8th, 2021

 

BOB DOLE PASSES AWAY 

 

 

(Photos: NY Times, Getty Images, Washington Post)

Robert Dole, a U.S. Senator from Kansas died Sunday morning at the age of 98. A decorated World War II veteran, Dole was injured in Italy. After a arduous hospitalization and recovery, he gained a Congressional seat in 1950 and then was elected to the Senate in 1968. Dole was chairman of the Republican National Committee from 1971 through 73. He escaped the stench of Watergate (and had no involvement as did hi successor George H.W. Bush in the corruption) and was named Gerald Ford’s running mate in 1976. First known as “The Hatchet Man” Dole seemed to moderate with age. Oh, he was still a partisan but tried to cobble together compromises that resulted in bi partisan solutions to problems that needed solving. Dole worked with George McGovern to put together a Food Stamp program that benefited Agriculture as well as the needy. He also worked to make Social Security solvent.

During the time he did these things, they were unremarkable in terms of process. It was governance. It was what people in power did. Propose, not oppose. Build not obstruct. Today I am sure Dole’s style would be vilified by what has become the modern Republican party.  His multi terms in the Senate would have had a crazed primary foe. His war service would be minimized by the hard right. Bob Dole was the last of the great World War II generation of leaders who believed in American values.

Many of the readers of this blog know I never voted straight Democrat in my life. As a matter of fact, Bob Dole was the last Republican I ever voted for President. My vote came for the admiration I had for his personal courage, tenacity and willingness to serve. Just getting dressed in the morning for him had to be an ordeal. But he endured and took the most challenging path.

Today there are no Bob Doles in the Senate, let alone very few in the damn country.  His style, wit and most importantly his honor will be unfortunately regarded as quaint by today’s horrendous standards.

BOB DOLE’S GREATEST HITS

 

 

First Senate race.  

 Dole returns to hometown in '76 campaign.  

"Quit lying about my record!"  

 A eulogy for Nixon.  

 A final salute to a foe and friend.