Nov 4, 2025 - Politics & Policy

Dick Cheney's life in photos

Avery Lotz

Bush and Cheney ride in the back of a car, both wearing suits and ties. Bush leans back while holding onto a handle while Cheney smiles and crosses his hands in his lap. — Vice President Dick Cheney and President George W. Bush in transit on Feb. 28, 2008. Photo: Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

From a Republican stalwart who redefined the vice presidency to an outspoken MAGA opponent, Dick Cheney's impact on American politics spanned decades.

The big picture: A polarizing force in the "war on terror," he expanded the reach of his office in the wake of the country's deadliest terrorist attack and helped drive the costly, unpopular Iraq War built on faulty intelligence.

Cheney, 84, died Monday from complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, his family announced.

"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," his family said in a statement.

Flashback: Cheney's lengthy political career also included stints defense secretary, White House chief of staff and Wyoming congressman.

He suffered cardiac problems for decades — but that did nothing to loosen his powerful policy grip during his tenure, notably in areas of national security.

Zoom in: Take a look through Cheney's impactful political career, in photos.