Dick Cheney on George W. Bush
TL;DR
Dick Cheney consistently maintained deep loyalty and respect for George W. Bush, viewing him as a close friend and trusted leader throughout their shared tenure.
Key Points
The former President honored Cheney after his death in 2025, calling him "among the finest public servants of his generation."
Cheney was chosen by George W. Bush to join the 2000 ticket after leading the vice-presidential search committee for the presumptive nominee.
The relationship was tested near the end of their term by the President's refusal to pardon Cheney's aide, Scooter Libby.
Summary
Dick Cheney consistently expressed a deep, positive view of George W. Bush, whom he served as Vice President for two terms from 2001 to 2009. Cheney was instrumental in shaping the President's approach to national security following the September 11 attacks and was an early, strong proponent of the decision to invade Iraq, justifying it by alleging Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction.
Their relationship, described as professional and built on trust, was the foundation for a highly consequential administration, though Cheney later noted that the President did not accept his advice as much in the second term. Post-presidency, the former President honored his friend and Vice President, praising his dedication to public service and character after Cheney's passing in 2025.
Key Quotes
I think we made the -- exactly the right decisions.
“Dick was a calm and steady presence in the White House amid great national challenges."
Frequently Asked Questions
Former President George W. Bush issued a statement honoring Dick Cheney following his death in 2025, calling him "a patriot who brought integrity, high intelligence, and seriousness of purpose to every position he held." The former President delivered a eulogy at Cheney's funeral, emphasizing their close working relationship and calling him his friend.
Dick Cheney stated that the President did not accept his advice as much in the second term as he did in the first term, suggesting some divergence in policy formulation later in their tenure. However, Cheney remained largely supportive, especially regarding the initial justifications for the Iraq War, which he strongly advocated for.
Dick Cheney is widely considered by many sources to have been the chief architect of the administration's decision to invade Iraq, actively promoting the casus belli related to weapons of mass destruction. He maintained steadfast support for the war decisions made during the George W. Bush administration.