### Dick Cheney: A Polarizing Figure in American Politics Passes Away at 84 - Richard Bruce "Dick" Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States, died on November 3, 2025, at the age of 84. His family confirmed that he succumbed to complications from pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, marking the end of a controversial and influential political career that spanned several decades [https://www.greenriverstar.com/story/2025/11/06/news/former-vp-dick-cheney-dies-at-84/13300.html][https://www.apnews.com/article/dick-cheney-dies-079591b529f048489650e7569bc675d2]. Cheney served under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009 and was a key architect of the Iraq War, a decision that has continued to shape U.S. foreign policy and public opinion [https://www.financialexpress.com/world-news/us-news/who-is-dick-cheney-former-us-vice-president-dies-at-the-age-of-84/4031990]. ### Overview of Cheney's Life and Political Influence 1. **Early Life and Career**: - Born in Nebraska and raised in Wyoming, Cheney's political career began in the Nixon and Ford administrations. He served six terms in Congress and was CEO of Halliburton before becoming Vice President [https://www.thereport.live/international/former-us-vice-president-dick-cheney-dies-at-84/38173]. 2. **Vice Presidency**: - Cheney was known for his significant influence during the Bush administration, particularly in the wake of the September 11 attacks. He was a staunch advocate for the "War on Terror" and played a pivotal role in the decision to invade Iraq in 2003, based on claims of weapons of mass destruction [https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/04/dick-cheney-powerful-former-us-vice-president-who-pushed-for-iraq-war-dies-at-84.html]. 3. **Controversies**: - His tenure was marked by controversies, including his support for enhanced interrogation techniques and the 2006 hunting accident where he accidentally shot a friend [https://www.independent.ie/world-news/north-america/powerful-and-polarising-former-us-vice-president-dick-cheney-dies-aged-84/a372612784.html]. Cheney's hardline conservatism often put him at odds with more moderate factions within the Republican Party, especially as his daughter Liz Cheney became a vocal critic of Donald Trump [https://www.financial-world.org/news/news/financial/29448/dick-cheney-force-behind-post911-america-dies-at-84]. ### Key Data Points on Cheney's Legacy - **Political Positions**: - Served as Vice President from 2001 to 2009. - Held the position of Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush during the Gulf War. - **Health Issues**: - Cheney had a history of cardiovascular problems, including living with a mechanical heart for several years [https://www.onlymyhealth.com/dick-cheney-death-cause-at-84-lived-with-a-mechanical-heart-12977840672]. - **Public Perception**: - Described as one of the most powerful and polarizing vice presidents in U.S. history, Cheney's legacy is a mix of significant achievements and deep controversies [https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/dick-cheney-dead-latest-bush-iraq-war-liz-us-vice-president-b2858191.html]. ### Conclusion: Cheney's Enduring Impact on American Politics - **Legacy of Influence**: Cheney's death marks the end of an era for a figure who was both revered and reviled. His role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, has left a lasting impact that continues to influence political discourse today. - **Key Takeaways**: 1. Cheney's political career was characterized by significant influence and controversy, particularly regarding the Iraq War. 2. His health struggles and personal life added complexity to his public persona. 3. Cheney's legacy will likely continue to be debated as the U.S. reflects on the consequences of the policies he championed. In summary, Dick Cheney's life and career encapsulate the complexities of American political history, marked by both decisive leadership and contentious decisions that resonate to this day [https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/dick-cheney-dead-cause-of-death-b2858181.html][https://www.financial-world.org/news/news/financial/29448/dick-cheney-force-behind-post911-america-dies-at-84].