I no longer pay much attention anymore to most news from the United States, particularly political news. However, the sad passing of Bob Dole captured my attention.

Dole was an outstanding representative of the era of political collegiality that I highly valued during my 25 years in the nation’s capital; a time when Democrats could sit down with Republicans for a drink or friendly chat. As the Republican Senate leader, he was always friendly and helpful.

I abandoned Washington, D.C. when I began to experience the impact of growing partisanship on both sides. I claim no extraordinary prescience, but I am pleased that the decision allowed me to avoid today’s toxic political environment.

R.I.P. Bob Dole