Democrats and Republicans came together to mourn former US Vice-President Dick Cheney at his funeral held in Washington DC. Cheney, who served under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, passed away due to complications related to pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease at the age of 84.
In his eulogy, Bush praised Cheney as a thinker and a listener in a field often dominated by talkers. Notably, former President Joe Biden, a Democrat, was also present, showing the bipartisan respect for Cheney's political contributions.
Cheney was a central figure in Bush's administration, known for his key role in shaping the response to the 9/11 attacks and advocating for the invasion of Iraq. During the service at the Washington National Cathedral, Bush recounted a moment from the 2004 re-election campaign, where Cheney had offered to step aside, demonstrating his character and dedication.
Cheney's powerful influence has seen him both revered and criticized in Republican circles, particularly in recent years as he spoke out against former President Donald Trump. His daughter, Liz Cheney, paid tribute during the ceremony, emphasizing her father’s belief that national interest must precede party politics.
Among the attendees were Vice President Kamala Harris and other former vice presidents, marking Cheney's significant impact on the political landscape. Trump and former Presidents Obama and Clinton did not attend, highlighting ongoing divisions within the party.
