President Bush Pays Tribute to Dick Cheney: ‘A Steady Presence in Times of Crisis’
Former President George W. Bush honored his longtime vice president, Dick Cheney, following the news of his death at age 84, calling him “among the finest public servants of his generation.”
In a statement released Tuesday, Bush praised Cheney’s strength and clarity during some of the nation’s darkest hours, including the September 11 terror attacks and the onset of the War on Terror.
“I counted on him for his honest, forthright counsel, and he never failed to give his best,” Bush said. “He held to his convictions and prioritized the freedom and security of the American people. For those two terms in office and throughout his remarkable career, Dick Cheney’s service always reflected credit on the country he loved.”
Cheney served as vice president from 2001 to 2009, playing a central role in foreign and defense policy following the 9/11 attacks. Before his vice presidency, he served as Secretary of Defense under George H.W. Bush, where he oversaw the U.S. invasion of Panama and Operation Desert Storm.
Bush described Cheney as “a calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges,” adding that he and former First Lady Laura Bush have extended their condolences to Cheney’s wife Lynne and the entire family.
“Laura and I have shared our deepest sympathies with Vice President Cheney’s wife Lynne and their daughters and granddaughters of whom he was so deeply proud,” Bush said.
The Cheney family also issued a heartfelt statement reflecting on his decades of service and dedication to family: “Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country, and to live lives of courage, honor, love, kindness, and fly fishing.”
Statement by President George W. Bush on Vice President Dick Cheney:
The death of Richard B. Cheney is a loss to the nation and a sorrow to his friends. Laura and I will remember Dick Cheney for the decent, honorable man that he was. History will remember him as among the finest… pic.twitter.com/fmx7hI4eFD
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) November 4, 2025
Cheney died Monday night due to complications from pneumonia and cardiovascular disease. He had long battled heart problems and underwent a heart transplant in 2012.