The nation gathered at Washington National Cathedral on November 20, 2025, to pay respects to Dick Cheney, the former vice president whose complex and often divisive legacy left a lasting imprint on American politics. The funeral brought together figures across the political spectrum, underscoring a rare moment of bipartisan tribute for a figure known as much for his staunch conservatism as for his influential role in shaping U.S. policy during the early 21st century.
Among the distinguished attendees were two former presidents: George W. Bush, Cheney’s president during his tenure as vice president, and Joe Biden, his successor and the current president. Despite past political differences—Biden once described Cheney as “the most dangerous vice president we’ve had probably in American history”—the sitting president chose to honor Cheney’s dedication to family and principled service, marking a solemn moment that transcended partisan divides.
George W. Bush delivered a eulogy reflecting on Cheney’s steadfast commitment during turbulent times, particularly highlighting his influence in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. Under Cheney’s guidance, the administration pursued controversial policies including surveillance expansion and military action in Iraq—decisions that continue to fuel debate. Bush credited Cheney with contributing to national security during a perilous era, while critics point to the devastating consequences of the Iraq War and the erosion of civil liberties.
The funeral also featured moving tributes from Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, whose own political journey mirrors aspects of her father’s legacy. Once a prominent Republican House member, Liz was sidelined by the MAGA faction for her outspoken criticism of Donald Trump, whom her father condemned in campaign ads as a “coward” attempting to undermine democracy. Her defense of democratic institutions and participation in the investigation of the January 6 Capitol riot underscored the enduring influence of Cheney family values on contemporary politics.
Notably absent from the event was former President Donald Trump. Reports confirmed that Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, were not invited—a reflection of the longstanding animosity between Trump and the Cheneys. The Trump administration had offered few public remarks following Cheney’s death on November 3, attributed to complications from pneumonia and chronic heart disease. Trump’s silence and exclusion contrasted with the bipartisan respect shown by figures including former vice presidents Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore, and Dan Quayle, all of whom attended to honor Cheney’s life.
Dick Cheney’s decades-long public service featured both significant accomplishments and fierce controversies. From his early role in shaping conservative policy to his decisive actions as vice president during 9/11, his unwavering influence provoked both admiration and criticism. His death at age 84 marks the end of a chapter defined by complex legacies intertwined with America’s unfolding history in the early 2000s.
The funeral at the National Cathedral served as more than a farewell; it was a powerful reminder of Cheney’s enduring impact on the nation’s political fabric. As leaders across party lines gathered to reflect on his life and work, the event illuminated the multifaceted nature of his legacy—one marked by loyalty, conviction, and a steadfast belief in his vision for America, even when it courted profound controversy.
