Former vice president Dick Cheney dies at 84

Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, one of the most influential and controversial figures in American politics, has passed away at the age of 84, his family announced. Cheney, who served as vice president under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, played a defining role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the post-9/11 era.

According to a family statement, Cheney died from complications of pneumonia and long-term cardiac and vascular disease. His wife, Lynne Cheney, along with their daughters, Liz and Mary, and other family members, were by his side in his final moments.

Throughout his life, Cheney battled serious health challenges. He survived multiple heart attacks and underwent a heart transplant in 2012, later calling it “the gift of life itself.” Despite his health struggles, he remained active in political discussions and continued to influence conservative thought in the U.S.

In their heartfelt statement, the Cheney family said:

“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, kindness, and service. We are forever grateful for all he did for our nation — and even more blessed to have loved and been loved by him.”

Cheney’s political career spanned decades. Before serving as vice president, he was Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush, overseeing the Gulf War victory in 1991. Later, as vice president, he became a central figure in the War on Terror, advocating for strong national security policies that shaped America’s global presence for years to come.

Even in retirement, Cheney remained a respected — and sometimes divisive — voice in Republican politics. His daughter, Liz Cheney, followed in his footsteps, serving in Congress and gaining national attention for her principled stances on American democracy and leadership.

As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, many remember Cheney as a man of conviction, intellect, and enduring influence — a leader who left a lasting mark on U.S. history.