Former US Vice President Dick Cheney Passes Away at 84

Former US Vice President Dick Cheney has passed away at the age of 84, as confirmed by his family. A significant figure in American politics, Cheney’s career encompassed roles as White House chief of staff, congressman, secretary of defense, and vice president.

Dick Cheney’s Political Legacy

Cheney began his journey in politics as a White House aide under President Richard Nixon. He became the youngest White House chief of staff when serving Gerald Ford. Following that, he represented Wyoming as a congressman during Ronald Reagan’s administration.

In the 1990s, Cheney served as secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush. He played a crucial role in the first Gulf War, which aimed to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. His most prominent position came when he was selected as vice president by George W. Bush for the 2000 presidential election.

Controversies and Influence

Cheney’s political career was not without controversy. Despite having survived three heart attacks, he was noted for his powerful influence over President Bush. In 2001, following the tragic events of September 11, Cheney assumed a critical role in national security strategy as Bush was evacuated to safety.

• Advocated for international cooperation after the 9/11 attacks.
• Instrumental in the decision to invade Iraq in 2003.
• Promoted the belief that Iraq was tied to al-Qaeda and possessed weapons of mass destruction.

As events unfolded, no evidence supported these claims. The decision led to a prolonged and costly conflict, with significant human tolls. By February 2021, the official US death toll in Iraq reached 4,431, while the toll in Afghanistan stood at 2,352.

The Broader Impact of the War on Terror

Since 2001, the Watson Institute of International and Public Affairs at Brown University estimates that at least 800,000 people have died due to direct war violence in countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Pakistan. Cheney’s post-office years were marked by his defense of controversial tactics, including the use of torture against detainees.

Family and Legacy

Cheney’s influence on Republican politics extends to his daughter, Liz Cheney, who also served as a representative from Wyoming. She continues to hold a prominent leadership role in the US House of Representatives. Throughout his life, Cheney was often compared to iconic figures, with some referring to him as “Darth Vader.” His complex legacy continues to shape political discussions today.