By Faith Chondol
Former United States Vice President Dick Cheney has died at the age of 84, according to a statement from his family released on Tuesday. Cheney reportedly passed away on Monday due to complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease.
Cheney, who served as the 46th vice president under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, was one of the most influential and controversial figures in modern American politics. He played a central role during the September 11, 2001 attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, shaping U.S. foreign policy through his strong belief in executive power and aggressive national security strategies.
Born on January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Cheney grew up in Wyoming and later earned a degree in political science from the University of Wyoming. He began his political career as a congressman representing Wyoming, before serving as White House Chief of Staff, and later as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush, where he oversaw the 1990-91 Gulf War.
Cheney was a leading advocate of the neo-conservative ideology, pushing for the use of U.S. military strength to defend American interests globally. He was also one of the key architects of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, citing claims—later proven false—that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction.
Despite his private nature, Cheney often found himself at the center of public controversy — from his role in promoting “enhanced interrogation” tactics, to the infamous 2006 hunting accident where he accidentally shot a friend.
In his later years, Cheney became a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, with his daughter, Liz Cheney, confirming that he voted for Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election — a rare move for a lifelong Republican.
What People Should Know About Dick Cheney
Longest-serving Vice President since World War II, completing two full terms.
Key figure in the U.S. “War on Terror”, influencing decisions on Afghanistan and Iraq.
Former Secretary of Defense who managed U.S. forces during the Gulf War.
Survived five heart attacks and multiple surgeries, including a heart transplant.
Known for his strong defense of presidential power and controversial interrogation policies.
His leadership style and influence earned him the nickname “The Power Behind the Throne.”
Cheney’s legacy remains divisive — hailed by some as a steadfast patriot who protected America after 9/11, and condemned by others as the architect of costly wars and human rights abuses.
He is survived by his wife, Lynne Cheney, and their two daughters, Liz and Mary Cheney.
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