TEXAS — Bob Dole, a World War II veteran who survived life-threatening injuries to go on to become a leader in the Republican Party, died in his sleep this past weekend. He was 98 years old.

Dole was first elected to Congress, representing Kansas, in 1960. He was later elected to the Senate where he served as a committee chairman, majority leader and minority leader in the 1980s and ‘90s.

Dole sought the presidency three times, most recently in 1996. He sought the office in 1980 and 1988, and in 1976 was the GOP vice presidential candidate, on the ticket with President Gerald Ford.

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Dole’s life was memorialized by several Republican Texas lawmakers. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued the following statement:

“Cecilia & I are saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Dole. Senator Dole was a WWII hero, a stalwart of the Republican Party, & above all a great man. We send our prayers to the Dole family at this time. Flags will be flown at half-staff in his honor. May he rest in peace.”

Former President George W. Bush issued the following statement:

 “Laura and I are saddened by the passing of a great patriot, Senator Bob Dole. This good man represented the finest of American values. He defended them in uniform during World War II. He advanced them in the United States Senate. And he lived them out as a father, husband, and friend. Our entire family benefitted from that friendship, including my father. I will always remember Bob’s salute to my late dad at the Capitol, and now we Bushes salute Bob and give thanks for his life of principled service. Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Elizabeth and join our fellow citizens in prayer for her comfort.”

 Texas Land Commissioner and candidate for Texas attorney general George P. Bush issued this statement:

“Saddened to hear the news of Bob Dole’s passing. While serving our country, he and my grandfather grew to be close friends. From his heroism on the WWII battlefield, to over a quarter century of public service, Bob Dole embodied American values. He will be missed.”

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued a statement which reads, in part:

“Today, Heidi and I join all Americans in mourning a true American hero. A member of the Greatest Generation, Bob Dole served our country as an extraordinary soldier, a relentless legislator, and a faithful statesman.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.