Nancy Pelosi Pays Tribute to Former Vice President Dick Cheney, Praising His Patriotism and Legacy of Public Service
In a heartfelt statement, former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi honored former Vice President Dick Cheney, calling him a “patriotic American who loved his country.” While acknowledging their sharp policy differences over the years, Pelosi emphasized Cheney’s deep sense of duty and unwavering commitment to the United States.
“Dick Cheney was a patriotic American who loved his country,” Pelosi said. “While we strongly disagreed on most policy issues, his patriotism was clear when he returned to the House Floor to commemorate the first anniversary of January 6th.”
Pelosi’s remarks recalled a poignant moment in January 2022, when the former vice president made a rare appearance on the House floor alongside his daughter, Representative Liz Cheney, to mark the anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol. Standing amid a politically divided chamber, Cheney’s presence symbolized respect for the institution of Congress and the peaceful transfer of power — principles he defended throughout his career.
“We all saw then how proud Vice President Cheney was to see his daughter, Liz, follow in her father’s footsteps to serve in the House with courage and integrity,” Pelosi added.
Cheney’s long career in public service — from White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford to Secretary of Defense under George H. W. Bush, and later Vice President under George W. Bush — left a lasting mark on American politics and national security. Despite strong ideological contrasts, Pelosi’s statement reflected a spirit of respect for his decades of service and the values he upheld.
In her message, Pelosi extended her condolences to the Cheney family, particularly to Lynne Cheney, his wife of more than five decades, and their daughters Liz and Mary Cheney.
“May it be a comfort to Lynne, Liz, and Mary that so many are praying for them at this sad time,” Pelosi said, closing her statement with words of compassion and unity.
Her tribute underscored the bipartisan recognition of Dick Cheney’s lifelong commitment to the nation — a reminder that, even amid political differences, respect for service and devotion to country remain values shared across the aisle.
As tributes pour in from leaders of both parties, Cheney is being remembered as a statesman whose influence shaped American defense policy and whose family continues his legacy of courage, integrity, and public service.
