Former Vice-President Dick Cheney passed away today at age 84, according to reports by his family and AP News. It marks an end of an extraordinary but contentious chapter of American political history.
Cheney passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his time of passing, due to complications related to pneumonia and long-term cardiac and vascular disease. To the AP News at that moment +1
Early Life and Career
Born January 30th 1941 in Lincoln Nebraska, Cheney grew up in Wyoming before entering national politics through roles with President Ford’s administration – serving as White House Chief of Staff before later representing Wyoming in Congress. (Wikipedia).
He served as Secretary of Defense under President George H. W. Bush from 1989 to 1993, overseeing U.S. forces during the Gulf War.
history.defense.gov + 1 Additionally he held Vice Presidential responsibilities from 2001-2009.
Cheney achieved international renown during his time as President George W. Bush’s 46th Vice President from 2001 to 2009, serving two terms and becoming one of the most recognizable vice-presidents in American history. To read more, visit georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov
After the attacks of September 11th 2001, Cheney played an essential role in shaping U.S. national security and foreign policy decisions. He advocated for expanded executive powers, oversaw major counter-terrorism efforts and supported invasion of Iraq in 2003 – as reported by AP News.
Cheney left behind a complex legacy. Supporters laud his firm leadership during times of crisis; critics point to intelligence failures and civil liberties debates during and following his tenure.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Over time, Cheney became increasingly critical of certain Republican figures and policies under President Donald Trump; at times even endorsing Democratic candidates — an unusual move among heavyweight Republicans of his era.
AP News. +1
Personal Life and Health Struggles
Cheney’s personal story was defined by heart disease. He experienced multiple heart attacks before receiving a transplant in 2012. Cheney joked about turning off his defibrillator’s wireless function in order to avoid remote triggering, according to Stanford Medicine +1 (+1 for mobile phones).
He married Lynne Cheney in 1964 and together they raised two daughters, Liz and Mary. Family members were by his side at his passing. New York Post
Reactions and Impact
Following news of Cheney’s passing, tributes poured forth across the world. Political leaders and commentators highlighted his long service to different administrations as well as his significant role in shaping post-9/11 society as a whole, along with his outsized influence over American executive power.
His death also serves as a timely reminder of the ever-expanding role of vice-presidency in modern U.S. politics; Cheney made significant strides in turning this office from ceremonial to more prominent status.
As flags are flown at half-mast and memorial services are planned, the nation prepares to assess Cheney’s legacy — warts and all. With his death comes an inevitability in today’s America that was not there prior.
Cheney’s story is one of ambition, influence, controversy and mortality. His impactful role in American history was unparalleled; with his passing comes one of the most remarkable political careers ever seen during this era.