Richard Bruce “Dick” Cheney(January 30, 1941 – November 3, 2025) was an influential American politician and businessman. He served as the 46th Vice President under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. His vice presidency is noted as one of the most powerful and controversial in U.S. history.
Early Life and Education
Born in Nebraska, Cheney grew up in Wyoming. He attended Yale briefly before earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science from the University of Wyoming. He married Lynne Vincent in 1964.
Political Career
Cheney’s political career in Washington began in 1968.
- White House Chief of Staff: He served as the youngest White House Chief of Staff for President Gerald Ford.
- U.S. House of Representatives:Representing Wyoming, he served six terms in the House, becoming the House minority whip.
- Secretary of Defense: Under President George H.W. Bush, he was Secretary of Defense during the Persian Gulf War.
Private Sector and Vice Presidency
Cheney also worked in the private sector, notably as CEO of Halliburton Company.
As Vice President, he was a key figure in the Bush administration’s “war on terror” following the September 11 attacks. He was a proponent of the Iraq War and supported controversial interrogation methods and the expansion of presidential authority.
Later Life and Death
After leaving office, Cheney remained involved in political commentary. He later became a vocal critic of President Donald Trump.
Cheney had a history of heart issues and received a heart transplant in 2012.
Dick Cheney passed away at age 84 on November 3, 2025, due to health complications. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
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