Former vice president Dick Cheney has died at the age of 84 after experiencing cardiac complications. Cheney, who served as the 46th vice president alongside Republican President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, was widely recognized as a central figure in shaping U.S. policy during his tenure. His family confirmed he passed away surrounded by loved ones, citing pneumonia and pre-existing cardiac and vascular conditions as contributing factors.

Cheney’s legacy is deeply tied to his role in the “war on terror,” including decisions that led to the Iraq War, which remain controversial. Throughout his career, he maintained a hardline conservative stance, later becoming a vocal critic of former president Donald Trump, whom he condemned as a “coward” and a threat to democratic institutions. In a surprising turn, Cheney publicly supported Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, marking a rare alignment with his party’s opposition.

The former vice president’s influence extended across decades, impacting military strategies and political decisions. His passing has sparked reflections on his complex legacy, marked by both power and division.