US political figures, including George W. Bush paid tribute to former vice president Dick Cheney, recalling his calm leadership during national crises.
Bush stated in a statement that he will remember Cheney "for the decent honorable man that he was" and that history would remember him "as among the finest public servants of his generation."
Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming offered praise. “Wyoming mourns the passing of Vice President Dick Cheney,” he wrote on X.
“His unflinching leadership shaped many of the biggest moments in domestic and U.S. 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.”
Lawmakers from other states also weighed in on the 46th vice-president.
“He devoted much of his life to serving the United States–from Congress to the Pentagon to the White House,” wrote Republican senator, Jon Husted, of Ohio on X. “He had an unwavering commitment to our nation’s security, strength, and founding values.”
Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa wrote:
“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, wrote:
“I first got to know him 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 U.S. 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.”
Bill Schuette, a former congressman and attorney general from Michigan, reflected on his time serving alongside Schuette in Washington. Schuette remarked, "He was a proud American, a good man, and a unique Statesman."
Former American Enterprise Institute alumni have passed away, according to Robert Doar, president of the center-right think group.
A comment from the White House has not yet been issued. Despite not posting about Cheney's passing, Donald Trump was active on Truth Social this morning.
What were Cheney's major roles and controversies in policy?
Cheney was a crucial mastermind of the 2003 irruption of Iraq, championing explosively for the war grounded on claims of munitions of mass destruction, which were later discredited. He supported and helped apply programs allowing enhanced interrogation ways (extensively considered torture) at Guantanamo Bay and CIA black spots.
Cheney was necessary in expanding government surveillance programs through the Patriot Act and other legal means that increased administrative power over civil liberties. He served as Secretary of Defense under George H.W. Bush was known for military and budget opinions during the end of the Cold War.
Cheney faced review for supporting torture and" enhanced interrogation," dismissing reports exposing these practices and defending them as necessary. His backing of expansive surveillance programs was blamed for violating sequestration rights and disproportionately targeting Muslim Americans.
Cheney was involved in significant superintendent overreach, limiting oversight and circumventing established legal checks on the administration's conduct.