Dick Cheney, the influential and often polarizing former U.S. vice president, has died at the age of 84. He passed away on Tuesday morning from complications related to pneumonia and heart and vascular disease, surrounded by his wife of 61 years, Lynne, and their daughters, Liz and Mary.
Cheney, widely regarded as one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history, played a decisive role in shaping policy on war, the economy, and national security during the George W. Bush administration.
Born January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Cheney began his political career in Washington under President Nixon and later served as Chief of Staff to President Gerald Ford.
He was elected to Congress from Wyoming in 1978, eventually rising to House Minority Whip. In 1989, he became Secretary of Defense under George H.W. Bush, overseeing the U.S.-led coalition victory in the Gulf War and managing a pivotal moment in the post-Cold War era.
Cheney returned to public office in 2000 as George W. Bush’s running mate, bringing his extensive experience and a strong belief in expanding presidential power. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, he implemented the “One Percent Doctrine,” advocating preemptive action against any potential threat.
He was a key architect of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, often clashing with other officials and becoming a lightning rod for critics and supporters alike.
His tenure was marked by controversy, including the Iraq WMD intelligence failures, the Valerie Plame affair, and the 2006 quail hunting incident that left a Texas attorney injured.
Even after leaving office, Cheney remained politically active, publicly criticizing President Obama and later warning against Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election, standing firmly with his daughter, Liz Cheney, on defending democratic norms.
Throughout his career, Cheney emphasized loyalty to the Constitution and the preservation of American power. He co-authored books with Liz Cheney, including Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America, and remained outspoken on national security and governance issues.
In 2024, he and his daughter endorsed Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, reflecting their continued focus on country over party. Cheney’s life was defined by his steadfast commitment to his convictions and his belief in a strong, assertive United States.
