Bob Dole, a former Republican National Committee chairman, suggested that he planned to uphold tradition by attending the convention in Cleveland. | AP Photo Bob Dole endorses Donald Trump

Former Republican presidential nominee Bob Dole endorsed Donald Trump on Friday.

“The voters of our country have turned out in record numbers to support Mr. Trump. It is important that their votes be honored and it is time that we support the party's presumptive nominee, Donald J. Trump,” Dole said in a statement.


Dole, a former Republican National Committee chairman, suggested that he planned to uphold tradition by attending the convention in Cleveland.

"I plan to attend the RNC convention in Cleveland to show my support for our party and our ticket, as I have done my entire life. We must unite as a party to defeat Hillary Clinton. Donald Trump is our party’s presumptive nominee and our best chance at taking back the White House this November,” he concluded.

Trump thanked Dole for his endorsement, adding, “He is a wonderful man and it is a great honor to have his support.”

Dole joins current officials who have recently said that they will support the Republican nominee, including Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.). A host of prominent Republicans including Presidents George W. and George H.W. Bush have said they won't be attending the convention.