Former Vice President Dick Cheney Dies at 84, Family Confirms

UPDATE: Former Vice President Dick Cheney has died at the age of 84. His family confirmed he passed away Monday night due to complications from pneumonia and cardiac disease, surrounded by his wife of 61 years, Lynne Cheney, and their daughters, Liz and Mary.

Cheney was a significant figure in U.S. politics, serving as vice president under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. His influence spanned over three decades, during which he held multiple key roles, including Secretary of Defense and White House Chief of Staff. His family described him as a “great and good man” who instilled values of courage and honor in his children and grandchildren.

In 2000, Cheney was chosen to be Bush’s running mate, leveraging his extensive experience to bolster the campaign. He became known as one of the most powerful vice presidents in history, often at the center of controversy, particularly regarding his role in the Iraq War and the expansion of presidential powers. In a statement, Cheney’s family expressed gratitude for the love they shared with him, calling him a “noble giant.”

Cheney’s political legacy is marked by his defense of the decision not to invade Iraq following the Gulf War and his controversial assertions about weapons of mass destruction. In 2002, he famously claimed, “Simply stated, there is no doubt that Saddam Hussein now has weapons of mass destruction,” a statement that would later be disputed as no such weapons were found.

His daughter, Liz Cheney, rose to political prominence as a vocal critic of former President Trump and played a significant role in the January 6th Capitol investigation. She lost her position as the top Republican woman in the House due to her stance against Trump, who she described as a threat to democracy.

Born in 1941 in Lincoln, Nebraska, Cheney grew up in Wyoming and began his political career in Washington, D.C. He faced health challenges throughout his life, having suffered multiple heart attacks and receiving a heart transplant in 2012.

As news of his passing breaks, many are reflecting on Cheney’s complex legacy, characterized by significant achievements and deep controversies that shaped modern American politics. His death marks the end of an era in Republican politics, and reactions are pouring in from across the political spectrum.

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as additional details emerge.