Dick Cheney, a towering figure in the Republican party and one of the most influential vice presidents in American history, has passed away at the age of 84, according to a statement from his family. Cheney served two terms as vice president under former President George W. Bush, including during the terror attacks on September 11, 2001. His death was attributed to complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease.
Cheney’s family, including his wife of 61 years, Lynne, and his daughters, Liz and Mary, were by his side when he passed. The family statement described Cheney as a “great and good man” who instilled in his children and grandchildren a love for their country and a commitment to courage, honor, love, kindness, and even fly fishing.
Cheney’s health had been a concern for much of his life, with the first of five heart attacks occurring when he was just 37. He underwent a heart transplant in 2012. Despite these challenges, Cheney was a forceful conservative voice and a key figure in the Bush administration. He is often credited as one of the main architects of the Iraq War.
Cheney’s political career spanned the administrations of both President George H.W. Bush and his son, President George W. Bush. In a statement, the younger Bush expressed his sorrow at Cheney’s passing, describing him as a “decent, honorable man” and one of the finest public servants of his generation.
Cheney’s tenure as vice president was marked by his strong advocacy for the 2003 invasion of Iraq, suggesting ties between Iraq, al Qaeda, and the September 11 attacks. Despite the absence of discovered weapons of mass destruction, Cheney maintained that the invasion was the correct decision based on the intelligence available at the time.
Cheney’s political legacy also includes a notable divergence from Bush on the issue of gay marriage. Cheney, whose younger daughter Mary is a lesbian, argued that the issue should be addressed at the state level. His other daughter, Liz, followed in his political footsteps, becoming a Wyoming congresswoman.
Cheney’s influence extended beyond his political career. He served as CEO of Halliburton, the world’s second-largest oil service company, from 1995 to 2000. After leaving politics, Cheney continued to support his daughter Liz, who faced criticism from Republicans due to her opposition to former President Trump.
Cheney’s passing marks the end of an era in American politics. His influence and impact, both domestically and internationally, will continue to be felt and analyzed for years to come.