Dick Cheney, Influential Republican Leader and 46th U.S. Vice President, Dies at 84
Dick Cheney, a central figure in American politics and the 46th Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush, passed away on November 3 at the age of 84.
Surrounded by his family—including his wife of 61 years, Lynne Cheney, and their daughters, Liz and Mary—Cheney died from complications related to pneumonia and cardiovascular disease, according to a family statement.
“For decades, Dick Cheney served our nation in many roles, including White House Chief of Staff, U.S. Congressman from Wyoming, Secretary of Defense, and Vice President,”
the family said. “He was a man of integrity who instilled a love of country in his children and grandchildren and taught them to live with courage, honor, and kindness. We are endlessly grateful for his service and blessed to have loved him.”
Early Life and Education
Richard Bruce Cheney was born on January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and grew up in Casper, Wyoming. He earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wyoming, demonstrating an early commitment to education that would underpin his decades-long career in public service.
Early Government Career
Cheney began federal service in 1969 under the Nixon administration, working with the Cost of Living Council, the Office of Economic Opportunity, and the White House. After a brief departure in 1973, he returned to assist Gerald Ford’s transition team following Nixon’s resignation in 1974. Cheney quickly advanced, serving as deputy White House Chief of Staff, then Chief of Staff, and managing Ford’s 1976 reelection campaign.
Congressional Service
Elected six times as Wyoming’s sole U.S. Representative, Cheney became a leading conservative voice. He held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Republican Policy Committee, Chair of the House Republican Conference, and House Minority Whip. His legislative focus included abortion, gun rights, and environmental policies. During this period, Cheney experienced his first heart attack in 1978 and underwent quadruple bypass surgery in 1988, beginning a lifelong struggle with heart disease.
Secretary of Defense and Gulf War Leadership
Under President George H.W. Bush, Cheney served as Secretary of Defense, overseeing Operation Just Cause in Panama and Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf. His leadership earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1991. After Bush lost the 1992 election, Cheney moved into private life as a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and later became CEO and chairman of Halliburton, a global energy services company.
Vice Presidency
In 2000, Cheney chaired George W. Bush’s vice presidential search and was ultimately selected as the Republican nominee. The Bush-Cheney ticket won the Electoral College in a controversial election, despite losing the popular vote. Cheney suffered a mild heart attack shortly after Election Day.
As Vice President, he played a key role in shaping domestic and foreign policy, including coordinating the response to the September 11, 2001, attacks and the subsequent war on terror, which led to the Iraq invasion. Cheney also influenced energy policy, and he is widely regarded as one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history.
Later Life and Health Challenges
Cheney faced ongoing health struggles, including a fifth heart attack in 2010 and a life-saving heart transplant in 2012 after 20 months on the waiting list. His family expressed gratitude to the anonymous donor whose gift saved his life.
Family and Personal Life
Cheney and Lynne had two daughters, Liz and Mary, and seven grandchildren. Liz Cheney served as Wyoming’s U.S. Representative from 2016 to 2023 and became widely known for criticizing former President Trump, which contributed to her electoral defeat. Mary Cheney has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly marriage equality. Despite differing political views, the sisters reconciled publicly, emphasizing family, values, and mutual respect.
Legacy
Cheney’s life and career were dramatized in the 2018 film Vice, starring Christian Bale. His legacy is defined by his strategic influence in American politics, leadership in times of crisis, and dedication to family and country. Though often controversial, he is remembered for his policy acumen, unwavering service, and lasting impact on U.S. governance and foreign policy.