In a wave of tributes, US political leaders have offered their condolences in response to the news of the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney. President George W. Bush reflected on Cheney’s legacy, describing him as “a calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges.” In a heartfelt statement, Bush shared his intention to remember Cheney “for the decent honorable man that he was,” adding that history would recognize him “as among the finest public servants of his generation – a patriot who brought integrity, high intelligence, and seriousness of purpose to every position he held.”
Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming also paid tribute, stating, “Wyoming mourns the passing of Vice President Dick Cheney.” He acknowledged Cheney's profound impact, noting, “His unflinching leadership shaped many of the biggest moments in domestic and US foreign policy for decades. Dick will be remembered as a towering figure who helped guide the course of history in Wyoming, the United States, and around the world.”
While the White House has yet to release an official statement, former President Donald Trump remained active on Truth Social but has not yet addressed Cheney's death. Lawmakers from various states have also expressed their condolences. Senator Jon Husted of Ohio remarked, “He devoted much of his life to serving the United States – from Congress to the Pentagon to the White House. He had an unwavering commitment to our nation’s security, strength, and founding values.”
Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa shared a similar sentiment, stating, “Whether Vice President, Secretary of Defense, or in Congress, Dick Cheney was always proud to be an American. His commitment to defeat terrorism ensured there was never another 9/11. He served his country honorably and dutifully. May he rest in peace.”
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine reminisced about his early interactions with Cheney, stating, “I first got to know Cheney when we were members of Congress together and he was in the House Republican leadership. He was thoughtful, steady, and an advocate for his beloved Wyoming. Our nation saw his leadership as US Secretary of Defense, directing our military strategy during Operation Desert Storm. Vice President Cheney served his country faithfully in every office he held. He will be missed.”
Despite the outpouring of condolences from many in the Republican Party, Cheney's legacy is not without controversy. His role in the Iraq War, as well as his involvement in programs of torture and extraordinary rendition, has left a complicated legacy, attracting criticism from both the left and the right. Notably, Omar Suleiman, a US Islamic scholar and civil rights activist, expressed a stark perspective on Cheney’s death, stating, “May the 1 million murdered souls of Iraq haunt you for eternity.”
Progressive commentator Hasan Piker bluntly asserted on X that Cheney represented “one of the most evil people to exist in modern history,” underscoring the widespread criticism of his actions during his political career. Far-right radio host Alex Jones also voiced his disdain, stating, “Dick Cheney, one of the most evil men in modern history, died yesterday at 84,” while alluding to conspiracy theories surrounding the 9/11 attacks and Cheney’s alleged involvement.
Former Republican congressman George Santos remarked, “Dick Cheney will meet his maker and will have lots of explaining to do. I wish his family well all things considered, but I haven’t and won’t ever shed a tear for a war criminal of his ilk.” Meanwhile, Bill Schuette, a former Michigan attorney general, reflected on Cheney's service, stating, “He was a good man, a unique statesman, and a proud American.”
Robert Doar, president of the center-right think tank American Enterprise Institute, noted Cheney’s significance in the conservative movement, stating, “He was a force in the conservative movement and made a profound impact on our country.”
Even amidst a largely partisan response, a few Democrats joined in expressing their condolences. Former Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger extended her prayers to Cheney's family, stating, “My prayers are with the family of Vice President Dick Cheney today — his wife Lynne Cheney, his daughters Liz and Mary, and their families — as they mourn his passing.”
Democratic Representative Betty McCollum from Minnesota offered her condolences to Liz Cheney, stating, “My condolences are with my former colleague Liz Cheney and her family as they mourn the death of her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney. Her father was at her side as she stood up to Donald Trump and worked to protect our democracy.”
As the nation reflects on the legacy of Dick Cheney, it is evident that his impact on American politics will continue to be a subject of discussion and debate for years to come.
