On the evening of November 1, 2025, a violent incident unfolded aboard a high-speed train operated by London North Eastern Railway (LNER) as it traveled from Dick Cheney, the former Vice President of the United States, has passed away at the age of 84. A significant figure in U.S. politics for over five decades, Cheney's career spanned multiple key roles, culminating in his position as Vice President under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. Cheney became one of the most influential Vice Presidents in U.S. history, particularly through his role in shaping national security policy following the September 11 attacks. His leadership during the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, as well as his support for controversial measures like enhanced interrogation techniques and the Patriot Act, made him both a polarizing figure and a staunch defender of American interventionist policy.

Before his time as Vice President, Cheney served as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush, playing a pivotal role in the Gulf War and helping to steer the U.S. through the end of the Cold War. He also served as the House Minority Whip, further solidifying his reputation as a seasoned lawmaker. Despite his ongoing health challenges, including multiple heart attacks and surgeries, Cheney remained active in public life, advising successive Republican administrations and sharing his expertise on national defense and security.

Cheney's passing has led to tributes from leaders across the political spectrum. While his legacy is complex, with both praise and criticism for his policies, his influence on U.S. politics—particularly in the post-9/11 era—is undeniable. Cheney is survived by his wife, Lynne, their two daughters, and grandchildren.

Dick Cheney played a major role in several key events and policies during his political career:

1. The 2003 Invasion of Iraq: As Vice President, Cheney was a primary advocate for the U.S. invasion of Iraq, helping to shape the Bush administration's decision to overthrow Saddam Hussein, based on claims of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and ties to terrorism. This decision remains one of the most controversial of his career.

2. War on Terror: Cheney was a driving force behind the U.S. response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, shaping policies such as the Patriot Act, the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security, and the expansion of surveillance powers for intelligence agencies.

3. Enhanced Interrogation Techniques: Cheney defended the use of harsh interrogation tactics, including waterboarding, as part of the U.S. war on terror, despite widespread criticism and concerns about their legality and effectiveness.

4. U.S. Defense Policy and Military Strategy (1990s): As Secretary of Defense under George H.W. Bush, Cheney played a crucial role in overseeing the Gulf War in 1991, successfully driving Iraqi forces out of Kuwait and setting the stage for future U.S. military policy in the Middle East.

5. The Bush Tax Cuts (2001 and 2003): Cheney supported and helped pass significant tax cuts during the Bush administration, which were aimed at stimulating the economy but also contributed to the increase in the federal deficit.

6. Energy Policy (2001): Cheney led the administration's push for a comprehensive energy policy, which included incentives for domestic oil and gas production, deregulation of the energy sector, and energy conservation measures.

These actions, among others, left a lasting impact on U.S. foreign and domestic policy. Cheney's role in shaping American politics during the early 21st century remains a subject of significant debate and analysis.

Sources: NBC News, CBS News, CNN, Bloomberg, AP News.