Dick Cheney, who served as Vice President under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, has passed away at the age of 84. Cheney died on the evening of November 3, 2025, due to complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, as confirmed in a statement released by his family.
Born in Nebraska, Cheney had a prominent political career. He first gained national prominence as the White House Chief of Staff for President Gerald Ford in the 1970s, later representing Wyoming in the House of Representatives for a decade. He is often recognized as a key architect behind the 2003 invasion of Iraq, a decision that had significant implications for U.S. foreign policy in the years that followed.
In recent years, Cheney had become known for his criticism of current U.S. President Donald Trump, reflecting a notable shift in the Republican Party. His legacy includes a complex mix of staunch conservative policies and contentious decisions that shaped American politics.
Cheney’s influence extended beyond politics, as he was depicted by Christian Bale in the 2018 film Vice. The film not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned Academy Award nominations for both Bale and co-star Sam Rockwell, along with a nomination for Best Picture.
His family released a heartfelt statement following his passing: “For decades, Dick Cheney served our nation, including as White House Chief of Staff, Wyoming’s Congressman, Secretary of Defense, and Vice President of the United States. 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.”
Cheney is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Lynne Cheney, and their daughters, Liz and Mary Cheney. The family expressed deep gratitude for the time they spent together, stating, “We are grateful beyond measure for all Dick Cheney did for our country. And we are blessed beyond measure to have loved and been loved by this noble giant of a man.”
As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, Cheney’s impact on American governance and international relations remains a topic of discussion, reflecting both admiration and controversy.
