Bob Dole, former Republican presidential candidate and former Senate leader, has been been hospitalized.
Bob Dole’s medical status was confirmed by Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV), who informed fellow senators Monday that Dole had been taken to Walter Reid Army Medical Hospital.
Reid, who is the current Senate Majority Leader, explained that Bob Dole had been taken ill and seemed to suggest what was ailing the former GOP nominee for president was a long-term and possibly chronic issue.
Reid spoke of his former colleague in discussing the passage of legislation to support individuals with disabilities:
“He is infirm, he is sick … We should do this to recognize what a great leader Bob Dole is.”
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), also a former presidential candidate, noted that Bob Dole had reached out to senators on both sides of the aisle in reference to the Convention of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and its fate in the Senate.
Of the legislation Dole championed, McCain said:
“I hope my colleagues would, before deciding to vote, at least listen to the letter that was addressed to all of us by Senator Bob Dole.”
McCain continued, quoting Dole:
“As you may know, tomorrow the senate will vote on CRPD. Unfortunately, I am currently at Walter Reed and so cannot call you personally but wanted to connect with you via e-mail and ask for your help. I hope you will support this important treaty.”
The legislation Bob Dole referenced in the letter to senators concerns the rights of the disabled. No specifics on Dole’s condition were made available, but the former lawmaker has faced hospitalizations and illness in recent years.