US Political Leaders React to Former Vice President Dick Cheney’s Passing

The 46th vice president of the United States, described by his family as a devoted public servant and central figure in the Iraq War, has died, his family announced.

Dick Cheney, the former U.S. vice president and a central figure in the George W. Bush administration, died at age 84, his family confirmed. His death drew responses from across the political spectrum, though some prominent figures remained silent.

Dick Cheney appears for "The Presidents' Gatekeepers" project about White House chiefs of staff in Jackson, Wyoming, on July 15, 2011 | Source: Getty Images

According to CNN on November 4, 2025, Cheney died from complications related to pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, as stated in a release from his family. He passed away surrounded by his wife of 61 years, Lynne, and their daughters, Liz and Mary.

The family described him as more than just a devoted husband. "Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country, and to live lives of courage, honor, love, kindness, and fly fishing," the family said.

Often described as the most powerful modern vice president, Cheney was a chief architect of the "war on terror" and helped lead the U.S. into the Iraq War — an ill-fated conflict based on faulty assumptions.

Former President Joe Biden responded to the news by acknowledging Cheney's long career in government and public service. While noting their political differences, Biden praised Cheney's commitment to conservative values and his belief in the importance of family. He extended condolences to Cheney's wife, their daughters, and grandchildren.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed condolences, describing Cheney as a dedicated public servant who held leadership roles across several administrations. She said his passing marked the loss of someone deeply committed to serving the country and offered her thoughts to the Cheney family.

While Biden and Harris issued public statements, President Donald Trump had not commented as of Tuesday. However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed he had been informed of Cheney's passing.

"I know the president is aware of the former vice president's passing. And as you saw, flags have been lowered to half staff in accordance with statutory law," Leavitt told reporters.