WASHINGTON (AP) — The Washington National Cathedral was the setting for a bipartisan memorial service on Thursday honoring Dick Cheney, the deeply influential yet polarizing former Vice President. Cheney, who passed away on November 3, was recognized for his pivotal role in American politics, particularly during the Bush administration.
Notably absent was former President Donald Trump, who remained publicly silent regarding Cheney's death and was not invited to the service. Among the attendees were former Presidents George W. Bush, who delivered a eulogy for his former vice president, and Joe Biden, who honored Cheney's dedication to his family and values despite having previously labeled him as a dangerous vice president.
As guests gathered, former political leaders were seen mingling in a poignant scene that exemplified the changing tides of American politics. Bush and Biden, accompanied by their wives, sat closely together, while former vice presidents Kamala Harris and Mike Pence shared conversation nearby. Republican Senator Mitch McConnell and his wife Elaine Chao also expressed their respects at this solemn occasion.
Highlighting the tributes was Liz Cheney, who spoke alongside Bush, reflecting on her father's legacy amidst her own challenges within the GOP, particularly due to Trump’s influence. The service saw participation from various others, including Cheney’s longtime cardiologist and former NBC correspondent Pete Williams, with hundreds of guests expected to share in this moment of remembrance.
Cheney's political legacy is marked by monumental decisions, including his advocacy for the Iraq War and his support for expansive surveillance post-9/11. His influence within the Republican party was historically significant, yet it also sparked considerable controversy. Cheney's commitment to the party was underscored by Liz Cheney's recent participation in the January 6 Committee, where she openly criticized Trump's actions during the Capitol riot, ultimately leading to her political downfall.
With flags at half-staff to commemorate his passing, Cheney's life story serves as a complex narrative of American politics, characterized by a drive for national security at significant moral and ethical costs. The tributes paid within the cathedral reflect a nation grappling with the legacies of its leaders, honoring not only their contributions but also the divisions they may have fostered.
