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November 05, 2025
Cheney, one of most powerful and polarizing vice presidents in US history, dies at 84
WASHINGTON (AP) — Dick Cheney, the hard-charging conservative who became one of the most powerful and polarizing vice presidents in U.S. history and a leading advocate for the invasion of Iraq, has died at 84.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Dick Cheney, a figure who indelibly shaped American politics and foreign policy, has died at the age of 84. The former vice president, known for his unwavering conservative principles and forceful approach to governance, leaves behind a legacy marked by both significant influence and intense controversy.
Cheney served as Vice President under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, a period defined by the September 11th terrorist attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was a staunch proponent of aggressive action in response to the attacks, becoming a leading voice in advocating for the invasion of Iraq in 2003. His role in shaping the Bush administration's national security strategy was undeniable, and he wielded considerable power behind the scenes.
Prior to his time as Vice President, Cheney held prominent positions in Republican administrations. He served as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush during the Gulf War, a conflict that saw the United States and its allies liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. He also served as a White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford, demonstrating his long and storied career in the upper echelons of American government. Before entering the executive branch, he represented Wyoming in the U.S. House of Representatives for a decade.
Cheney's influence extended beyond specific policy decisions. He was known for his deep understanding of government processes and his ability to navigate the complexities of Washington D.C. His supporters admired his decisiveness and his commitment to protecting American interests.
However, Cheney's tenure was not without significant criticism. His role in the lead-up to the Iraq War, particularly his assertions about weapons of mass destruction, drew intense scrutiny and condemnation. He was also criticized for his strong support of enhanced interrogation techniques, which many considered to be torture. These controversies contributed to his image as a polarizing figure, admired by some and reviled by others.
Dick Cheney's impact on American history is undeniable. He was a key player in shaping the nation's response to some of its most challenging moments. His death marks the end of an era and prompts reflection on his complex and controversial legacy.
Cheney served as Vice President under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, a period defined by the September 11th terrorist attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was a staunch proponent of aggressive action in response to the attacks, becoming a leading voice in advocating for the invasion of Iraq in 2003. His role in shaping the Bush administration's national security strategy was undeniable, and he wielded considerable power behind the scenes.
Prior to his time as Vice President, Cheney held prominent positions in Republican administrations. He served as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush during the Gulf War, a conflict that saw the United States and its allies liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. He also served as a White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford, demonstrating his long and storied career in the upper echelons of American government. Before entering the executive branch, he represented Wyoming in the U.S. House of Representatives for a decade.
Cheney's influence extended beyond specific policy decisions. He was known for his deep understanding of government processes and his ability to navigate the complexities of Washington D.C. His supporters admired his decisiveness and his commitment to protecting American interests.
However, Cheney's tenure was not without significant criticism. His role in the lead-up to the Iraq War, particularly his assertions about weapons of mass destruction, drew intense scrutiny and condemnation. He was also criticized for his strong support of enhanced interrogation techniques, which many considered to be torture. These controversies contributed to his image as a polarizing figure, admired by some and reviled by others.
Dick Cheney's impact on American history is undeniable. He was a key player in shaping the nation's response to some of its most challenging moments. His death marks the end of an era and prompts reflection on his complex and controversial legacy.
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