Dick Cheney’s Passing: Unraveling the Funeral Plans, Political Silence, and a Contentious Legacy
The nation observes a period of mourning following the passing of former Vice President Richard B. “Dick” Cheney on Monday, November 3. While flags across the United States have been lowered to half-staff in accordance with statutory law, the customary public acknowledgments from some prominent Republican leaders have been notably muted, sparking widespread discussion.
Cheney, 84, a figure whose influence shaped a pivotal era in American politics, passed away surrounded by family due to complications from pneumonia, cardiac, and vascular disease. His death reignites conversations about his far-reaching impact, from his role as the architect of the “War on Terror” to his later, vocal criticisms of former President Donald Trump.
The Unfolding Silence: Political Reactions and Protocol
Despite the traditional practice of presidential proclamations and public condolences for a former Vice President, President Donald Trump has yet to issue a formal statement or proclamation regarding Cheney’s death, four days after his passing. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Tuesday that Trump was “aware” of Cheney’s death and that flags were lowered “in accordance with statutory law.” This stands in contrast to past instances of national mourning for prominent political figures.
Similarly, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a fellow Republican, has also remained publicly silent, not issuing a proclamation despite having done so for other former leaders, including Democrats like former President Jimmy Carter and Senator Bob Graham. This conspicuous silence from key figures underscores the deep ideological rifts that developed within the Republican party, particularly following Cheney’s stark condemnation of Trump as a “threat to our republic” in 2022.
However, some Republican leaders have offered their condolences. Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, brother of President George W. Bush under whom Cheney served, hailed him as a “wonderful person and a great patriot.” Senator Rick Scott, another former Florida Governor, also took to social media to express prayers for the Cheney family, acknowledging his life of service to the country.
Understanding Flag Protocols for a Vice President
The lowering of flags to half-staff is a solemn tradition rooted in U.S. Flag Code protocols. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, flags are to be flown at half-staff from the day of death until the interment of a former Vice President. This differs from the 30-day period observed after the death of a President or former President.
During a half-staff observance, the flag should first be raised briskly to the top of the pole for an instant, then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. Before being lowered for the day, it should again be raised to the top before being fully brought down. This protocol is observed at all federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels across the United States and its territories.
The Question of a State Funeral and Final Resting Place
As of Thursday, November 6, details regarding Dick Cheney’s funeral arrangements or final resting place have not been publicly disclosed by his family or the White House. The possibility of a state funeral, a solemn event typically reserved for Presidents and other high-ranking officials, remains a subject of discussion.
For those afforded a state funeral, it often includes the honor of lying in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, allowing the public to pay their respects. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) indicated that Republican leadership was reviewing “protocol” regarding this possibility, as reported by The Hill.
Given Cheney’s birthplace in Lincoln, Nebraska, and his upbringing and eventual retirement in Wyoming, it is conceivable that funeral services could take place in either of these states, or potentially in Washington D.C., should a state funeral be organized.
A Legacy of Power and Controversy
Dick Cheney’s political career was marked by extraordinary influence, particularly during his tenure as Vice President under George W. Bush. Often described as the most powerful Vice President in history, he championed a robust executive branch, laying groundwork that some analysts argue influenced the executive overreach seen in subsequent administrations.
His later years saw a remarkable public split with Donald Trump, a fellow Republican. Cheney’s fierce criticism of Trump, culminating in his endorsement of Democrat Kamala Harris for president in 2024, highlighted the deep ideological chasm that emerged. This contentious relationship undeniably casts a shadow over the national political response to his passing and the arrangements for his final honors.
As the nation awaits further details on Dick Cheney’s funeral, the discussions surrounding his impactful yet controversial career, and the political landscape he helped shape, continue to resonate deeply within American discourse.
