The life and legacy of Dick Cheney, quite possibly the most polarizing vice-president in American history, who died on November 3. He passed away due to complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease. The former vice president’s funeral service was attended by many high-profile political figures from both sides of the aisle. This meeting illustrated his extraordinary ability to shape American political culture through the decades.
Cheney started his political career at just 28 years old. He served in the Nixon administration as a special assistant to Donald Rumsfeld. He very quickly rose through the ranks. At 34, he became the youngest White House chief of staff in history. He served ten years in the U.S. House of Representatives. In that brief time, he rose up the ladder to become the House minority whip.
During his quest for the presidency in 2000, George W. Bush chose Cheney to be his running mate. This collaboration put Liz Cheney on center stage during an unprecedented and dark moment in American history. His most lasting legacy is the successful and sometimes controversial response to the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. He was one of the key figures in the executive branch behind the push for expanded secret government surveillance powers. Beyond that, he became one of the principal architects of the effort to invade Iraq and Afghanistan.
No one will argue with the claim that Cheney’s time as VP was highly controversial. His critics consistently compared him to Darth Vader for his heavy-handed approach and the pro-highway policies he pushed. Even so, his defenders lauded his dedication to national security and defense.
The delegations were on hand to honor her memory, but they were touching base with history. Among those who attended were President Emeritus Joe Biden, along with former vice-presidents Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore and Dan Quayle. Their presence added a vivid counterpoint to the complexity of Cheney’s legacy and the deep respect he engendered in political foes.
George W. Bush delivered a heartfelt eulogy, reflecting on Cheney’s dedication.
“They don’t come any better than Dick Cheney.” – George W. Bush
These feelings were representative of the service as a whole, showing how Cheney’s life and work reached beyond party affiliation.
“But he knew that bonds of party must always yield to the single bond we share as Americans. For him, a choice between defense of the constitution and defense of your political party was no choice at all.” – Rachel Maddow
As the service came to a close, mourners considered Cheney’s central place in determining modern American policies. They remembered his profound impact on the structure and nature of U.S. governance. His decisions still provoke robust debate and discussion among scholars, politicians, and citizens.
As the funeral concluded, attendees were reminded of Cheney’s significant role in shaping contemporary American policies and his lasting influence on U.S. governance. His decisions continue to spark debate and discussion among scholars, politicians, and citizens.