In brief
The memorial service for former Vice President Dick Cheney drew bipartisan attendees including George W. Bush, who delivered a eulogy, and Joe Biden, who acknowledged Cheney’s commitment despite past criticisms. Cheney's daughter, Liz Cheney, also honored her father, as hundreds paid respects at the service. Notably absent was former President Donald Trump, who harbored a complicated relationship with Cheney. The service highlighted Cheney's significant yet polarizing role in American politics and his steadfast influence during the Bush administration, particularly on issues surrounding national security and foreign policy.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Washington National Cathedral on Thursday hosted a bipartisan memorial service for Dick Cheney, the contentious and influential vice president who became a notable critic of Donald Trump in his later years. The service began at 11 a.m. and did not include Trump, who was publicly silent following Cheney’s death on November 3. Former President George W. Bush attended and delivered a eulogy for his former vice president. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden, who previously labeled Cheney as 'the most dangerous vice president' in American history, recognized his commitment to family and values during the service.Among those in attendance were Bush and Biden alongside their partners, as well as other political figures, including former Vice Presidents Kamala Harris and Mike Pence. Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, who suffered political setbacks during the Trump era, shared her memories alongside Bush at this significant gathering to honor her father at the grand cathedral, known as 'a spiritual home for the nation.'Prominent tributes were also delivered by Cheney’s cardiologist and his grandchildren, with hundreds of mourners expected to pay their respects. Cheney had long battled heart disease and passed away at the age of 84 from complications of pneumonia and other conditions.Flags at the White House were lowered to half-staff after his death, a gesture typical for prominent figures; however, Trump did not issue a proclamation usually accompanying such events, remaining silent regarding Cheney's passing. Cheney's legacy is marked by a controversial approach to national security, advocating for the Iraq War based on flawed intelligence and supporting extensive surveillance measures following the events of September 11, 2001. His influence during the Bush administration and subsequent criticism of Trump's tactics, especially during the Capitol riots, accentuate the complex dynamics within the Republican Party post-presidency.
