Dick Cheney, Architect of the War on Terror, Passes Away at 84

Dick Cheney, the influential vice president under George W. Bush and a key architect of the United States’ “war on terror”, has died at the age of 84, according to a statement from his family. Cheney’s political career spanned several decades, and he was a polarizing figure known for his hardline conservative views and significant influence in Washington.

Serving as the 46th vice president from 2001 to 2009, Cheney played a crucial role in the United States’ response to the September 11 attacks in 2001. His tenure was marked by the controversial decisions that led the country into the Iraq War, based on what many later deemed faulty intelligence regarding weapons of mass destruction.

Cheney’s Political Legacy

Cheney’s rise to power was characterized by his deep involvement in various governmental roles, including White House chief of staff and defense secretary. He was known for his ability to navigate the complex political landscape, often operating behind the scenes. In a significant moment during the September 11 attacks, Cheney was in a secure bunker, directing the U.S. response as the nation grappled with the shock of terrorism on its soil.

Reflecting on the attacks, Cheney remarked in a 2002 interview, “At that moment, you knew this was a deliberate act. This was a terrorist act.” His approach to national security included a doctrine of pre-emptive war, which justified military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, the narrative that Cheney was solely responsible for these wars has been disputed, as many decisions were made collectively within the Bush administration.

Despite his influential role, Cheney faced immense criticism, particularly for his assertions regarding Iraq’s supposed connections to terrorism. Congressional reports later indicated that many of the claims made by Cheney and other officials about Iraq’s weapons programs were exaggerated or misleading.

Later Years and Criticism of Trump

In his later years, Cheney became increasingly isolated within the Republican Party, particularly following the rise of Donald Trump. Cheney openly criticized Trump, whom he labeled a “coward” and a significant threat to American democracy. This divergence culminated in a rare act of voting for a Democrat in the 2024 presidential election, casting his ballot for Kamala Harris.

Cheney’s health had been a concern for much of his adult life, as he battled cardiovascular disease and underwent a heart transplant in 2012. Despite these challenges, he remained a vocal figure in political discourse, particularly regarding the direction of the Republican Party and the implications of Trump’s policies.

Throughout his life, Cheney maintained a steadfast belief in his actions during the war on terror. He stated unequivocally, “I would do it again in a minute,” when confronted with criticism of the interrogation methods used during that time.

Born on January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Cheney’s early life was marked by struggles in academia and personal challenges. However, he eventually earned degrees in political science and embarked on a career that would see him become one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history.

Cheney’s political legacy continues to evoke strong opinions, with many viewing him as a symbol of the excesses of American foreign policy in the early 21st century. His death marks the end of an era in American politics, reflecting both the complexities of governance and the profound impact of individual leaders on the course of history. He is survived by his wife, Lynne Cheney, and their daughters, Liz and Mary Cheney, along with seven grandchildren.