Washington, D.C., October 2025 —
The American flag is flying at half-mast today across the United States in honor of former Vice President Richard “Dick” Cheney, who passed away at age 84 after complications related to heart failure, according to an official statement from his family.
The White House confirmed the half-staff order early Friday morning, prompting searches nationwide such as “why are flags at half-mast today?” and “did Dick Cheney die?” The flag tribute will remain in place until sunset on Sunday to honor Cheney’s decades of service in government.
Who Was Dick Cheney?
Dick Cheney, born January 30, 1941, in Lincoln, Nebraska, served as the 46th Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009.
A key architect of the post-9/11 era, Cheney wielded unprecedented influence within the Bush administration—shaping U.S. foreign and defense policy, especially the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Before the vice presidency, Cheney held several high-ranking positions:
- White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford
- U.S. Representative from Wyoming (1979–1989)
- Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush
Cause of Death: Complications from Heart Disease
Cheney had long struggled with cardiovascular issues, surviving multiple heart attacks beginning in his 40s. He underwent a heart transplant in 2012, an operation that extended his life for more than a decade.
According to family sources, Cheney passed away peacefully at his home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, surrounded by his wife Lynne Cheney and daughters Liz and Mary.
“My father lived for this country,” said Rep. Liz Cheney in a statement. “He believed deeply in America’s strength, in freedom, and in the responsibility of public service.”
Flags at Half-Mast: National Day of Mourning
President Biden ordered U.S. flags at half-mast through Sunday, honoring Cheney’s public service and national impact.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated:
“While our political differences were many, the President recognizes Dick Cheney’s decades of dedication to this nation. Today, we honor that service.”
The announcement immediately sparked trending searches, such as “why are the flags at half-mast today” and “who died today.”
The Vice Presidency and the “Vice” Movie
Cheney’s tenure as Vice President redefined the office. Often described as the most powerful VP in U.S. history, he shaped major decisions, including:
- The invasion of Iraq in 2003
- The use of enhanced interrogation techniques
- Expansive executive authority post-9/11
His career inspired the 2018 film “Vice,” starring Christian Bale, who won a Golden Globe for his portrayal. The movie depicted Cheney as both brilliant and controversial—a man whose quiet maneuvering shaped decades of American policy.
The 2006 Hunting Accident
Cheney’s public image also carried lighter—and darker—chapters.
In 2006, he accidentally shot attorney Harry Whittington during a quail-hunting trip in Texas.
Though Whittington survived, the “Dick Cheney shooting accident” became late-night comedy fodder and remains a strange footnote in American political history.
Whittington, 95, released a short statement today:
“We forgave each other long ago. He was a good man, and I wish his family peace.”
Political Legacy: Power, Patriotism, and Polarization
Supporters praise Cheney as a steadfast defender of national security who guided the country through its darkest days after the September 11 attacks.
Critics, however, blame him for leading the U.S. into prolonged wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, expanding surveillance powers, and fostering a “unitary executive” philosophy that tilted power toward the presidency.
Historian Susan Collins summarized his legacy:
“Cheney was both admired and feared. He mastered government like few before him—he was the Republican Party’s architect of modern power.”
Relationship with George W. Bush
Despite policy disagreements later in life, Cheney and President George W. Bush maintained mutual respect.
Bush released a statement saying:
“Dick was a man of courage and conviction. I was fortunate to have him by my side during extraordinary times.”
The two shared one of the closest working relationships in modern U.S. history. Cheney’s influence on foreign policy was so deep that critics often quipped: “Bush was President; Cheney was in charge.”
Family, Faith, and Later Years
Cheney’s marriage to Lynne Cheney lasted over 60 years. They had two daughters:
- Liz Cheney, former Congresswoman from Wyoming
- Mary Cheney, a businesswoman and LGBTQ advocate
The family often found itself in public debate—especially when Liz opposed Donald Trump and was later ousted from Republican leadership.
After leaving office in 2009, Cheney kept a low profile, occasionally appearing on NBC News and Fox interviews to defend his record. He also co-authored a memoir, “In My Time.”
Dick Cheney Net Worth and Influence
At the time of his passing, Dick Cheney’s net worth was estimated at approximately $100 million, stemming from his tenure as Halliburton CEO, speaking fees, and book royalties.
His wealth and ties to the oil industry often fueled criticism that he blurred the lines between corporate and public power.
Public Reaction and Funeral Plans
Across the nation, tributes and debates flood social media platforms.
Flags continue flying at half-staff, while NBC, CNN, and Fox News have rolled out extensive retrospectives.
A state funeral is expected to be held at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., attended by former Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama, along with current leaders.
His burial will take place in Wyoming, where he spent much of his retirement.
Did Dick Cheney Die Today?
Yes. Dick Cheney died on October 15, 2025, marking the end of a political era that spanned over five decades.
For millions of Americans, the half-mast flags symbolize both respect and reflection—a reminder of the complex legacy of power and patriotism that Cheney embodied.
The Voice That Changed a Nation
Love him or loathe him, Dick Cheney’s influence on U.S. governance, national security, and foreign policy remains undeniable.
As flags flutter across the country, America pauses to honor a man who—through strength, secrecy, and strategy—helped define an entire generation of politics.
