Biden calls Dole a "giant of our history" in tribute at U.S. Capitol

Bob Dole, the World War II veteran, senator and 1996 GOP presidential candidate, will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday. Dole died Sunday at the age of 98.

President Biden delivered the eulogy, after remarks from Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. 

"Bob belongs here," the president said, calling Dole a "giant of our history." Mr. Biden and Dole served together for 25 years. 

"We didn't agree on everything but I always admired and respected him," Mr. Biden said. "And his willingness to work with anyone."

Dole's former colleagues all remarked on his quick wit, one of his most famous characteristics.

"I swear, Bob could have made it as a stand-up comic," McConnell said. 

The president ordered all flags to be flown half-staff at the White House through December 11. 

Dole will lie in state from noon until 8 p.m., but due to COVID-19 protocols, it will not be open to the public. Lying in state in the Capitol Rotunda is reserved for prestigious lawmakers and citizens. 

Dole served in the House and Senate for over 30 years. First elected to the House in 1960, he was elected to the Senate in 1968. He resigned in 1996 to focus on his presidential campaign. 

A formal departure ceremony will be held on Friday at 9:30 a.m. before his funeral ceremony at the National Cathedral. There will also be a funeral service in Russell, Kansas, and he will lie in state in the Kansas State Capitol.