Dick Cheney remembered as steady, influential force in US politics

US political leaders offered their condolences in reaction to the news that Dick Cheney died, with George W Bush describing his former vice-president as “a calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges”.

Bush wrote in a statement that he would remember Cheney “for the decent honorable man that he was” and that history would remember him “as among the finest public servants of his generation – a patriot who brought integrity, high intelligence and seriousness of purpose to every position he held”.

Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming offered praise. “Wyoming mourns the passing of Vice President Dick Cheney,” he wrote on X.

“His unflinching leadership shaped many of the biggest moments in domestic and U.S. foreign policy for decades. Dick will be remembered as a towering figure who helped guide the course of history in Wyoming, the United States, and around the world.”

Lawmakers from other states also weighed in on the 46th vice-president.

“He devoted much of his life to serving the United States – from Congress to the Pentagon to the White House,” wrote Republican senator Jon Husted of Ohio on X. “He had an unwavering commitment to our nation’s security, strength, and founding values.”

Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa wrote: “Whether Vice President, Secretary of Defense, or in Congress, Dick Cheney was always proud to be an American. His commitment to defeat terrorism ensured there was never another 9/11. He served his country honorably and dutifully. May he rest in peace.”

Ohio governor, Mike DeWine, wrote: “I first got to know [Cheney] when we were members of Congress together and he was in the House Republican leadership. He was thoughtful, steady, and an advocate for his beloved Wyoming. Our nation saw his leadership as U.S. Secretary of Defense, directing our military strategy during Operation Desert Storm. Vice President Cheney served his country faithfully in every office he held. He will be missed.”

Former Michigan attorney general and congressman Bill Schuette of Michigan reminisced about his and Cheney’s service together in Washington. “He was a good man, a unique Statesman and a proud American,” Schuette wrote.

Robert Doar, president of the center-right thinktank American Enterprise Institute, noted the passing of its former alumni. “He was a force in the conservative movement and made a profound impact on our country,” Doar wrote.

The White House has yet to release a statement. Donald Trump was active on Truth Social this morning but has not posted about Cheney’s death.