U.S. Rep. Bob Dold (R-IL) was recognized on Monday as one of the most bipartisan members of Congress for his ability to work across party lines.
The Lugar Center’s Bipartisan Index ranked Dold among the most independent, bipartisan legislators. The index ranks the bipartisanship of legislators bipartisanship based on how well they work with opposite parties based on bill sponsorship and co-sponsorship data.
“I take tremendous pride in the fact that I’ve consistently been ranked among the most bipartisan and independent Members of Congress,” Dold said. “I believe that reflects the values of the 10th congressional district at its best. We are a better, stronger nation when we can all come together and find common ground. That’s why I’m committed to putting people before politics and progress before partisanship in the best interest of the people I represent.”
Dold’s bipartisanship has garnered acclaim throughout his career. CQ Roll Call previously ranked Dold as the second most bipartisan Republican member of the House of Representatives, while the Washington Post named him one of the most likely members of Congress to work across the aisle.
“This new data indicates that though Congress continues to be a highly partisan institution, some progress is being made,” Richard G. Lugar, the president of the Lugar Center and a former Republican senator from Indiana for 36 years, said. “Lawmakers with strong ideological views can still find common ground with members across the aisle if they make an effort to do so. Some members of Congress have embraced this challenge, despite the intensely partisan political culture exemplified in the national presidential campaigns.”