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Cheney Funeral
Trump and Vance not invited to Cheney’s funeral
Dick Cheney / Donald Trump / JD Vance / Joe Biden / George W. Bush / Washington, D.C., United States / National Cathedral /

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The Breakdown 39

  • The funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney on November 20, 2025, served as a poignant gathering of political figures, marked by the notable absence of Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, both excluded from the guest list.
  • Cheney's exclusion stems from a history of tensions with Trump, who had often been at odds with Cheney's critical stance deemed reflective of a larger rift within the Republican Party.
  • The ceremony highlighted a bipartisan respect for Cheney, drawing attendance from all four living former vice presidents alongside prominent figures like Joe Biden and George W. Bush, emphasizing the former vice president's complex but significant legacy.
  • Many tributes recognized Cheney's profound impact on American politics, even as they acknowledged the contentious nature of his later years, which included sharp criticisms of Trump.
  • The somber event symbolized not just a farewell to Cheney but also a reflection on a changing political landscape, marking a departure from traditional GOP values towards the era shaped by Trumpism.
  • As attendees mingled and shared their condolences, the funeral became a powerful reminder of the enduring divides and evolving dynamics within American politics, underscoring the contrasting legacies of those who attended and those who were left out.

On The Left 9

  • Left-leaning sources express indignation at Trump's exclusion from Cheney's funeral, highlighting bipartisan respect for Cheney while underscoring Trump's divisive legacy and failure to receive acknowledgment from prominent political figures.

On The Right 12

  • Right-leaning sources express outrage and disdain, labeling the exclusion of Trump and Vance from Cheney's funeral a bitter, hypocritical snub by the political elite, underscoring a deep Republican divide.

Top Keywords

Dick Cheney / Donald Trump / JD Vance / Joe Biden / George W. Bush / Kamala Harris / Liz Cheney / Mike Pence / Washington, D.C., United States / National Cathedral /

Further Learning

What were Dick Cheney's major accomplishments?

Dick Cheney served as the 46th Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. He was instrumental in shaping U.S. foreign policy post-9/11, advocating for the War on Terror, and supporting the invasion of Iraq in 2003. Cheney also played a key role in energy policy, notably through the Energy Policy Act of 2005. His influence extended to domestic security and defense strategies, making him a significant figure in the Bush administration.

How did Cheney influence U.S. foreign policy?

Cheney was a pivotal architect of U.S. foreign policy during his vice presidency, particularly in the context of the War on Terror. He promoted aggressive military action against perceived threats, including Iraq, which he argued possessed weapons of mass destruction. His views were shaped by a belief in preemptive strikes and a strong military presence abroad, which he believed were essential for national security. This approach has had lasting implications for U.S. foreign relations.

What was Trump's relationship with Cheney like?

The relationship between Donald Trump and Dick Cheney was marked by tension and criticism. Cheney, a traditional Republican, often criticized Trump’s approach and policies, particularly regarding national security and foreign affairs. Trump, in turn, dismissed Cheney's political legacy and influence, which culminated in Cheney's public opposition to Trump during and after his presidency. This friction reflects broader divisions within the Republican Party, especially regarding Trump's populist style.

Why was Trump excluded from the funeral?

Donald Trump was notably excluded from Dick Cheney's funeral due to ongoing tensions between him and the Cheney family. Cheney had become a vocal critic of Trump, especially regarding his approach to governance and the Republican Party's direction. The decision not to invite Trump underscores the rift within the GOP and reflects Cheney's complicated legacy, as he had distanced himself from Trump’s brand of politics in his later years.

What does this snub signify in politics?

Trump's exclusion from Cheney's funeral signifies a deeper divide within the Republican Party, highlighting the clash between traditional conservatism and Trump's populist approach. It reflects a rejection of Trump's influence by established party figures who prioritize a more conventional Republican ideology. This event serves as a reminder of the shifting dynamics in American politics, where loyalty and ideological alignment are increasingly scrutinized.

How did past vice presidents honor Cheney?

Former vice presidents, including Joe Biden and George W. Bush, attended Cheney's funeral, reflecting a bipartisan respect for his service. Their presence at the memorial highlighted the significance of Cheney's role in American politics and the shared history among those who have held the office. Eulogies delivered by attendees acknowledged Cheney's contributions while also recognizing the complexities of his legacy, particularly in relation to contemporary political issues.

What were Cheney's views on Trump's presidency?

Dick Cheney was critical of Donald Trump's presidency, expressing concerns about Trump's approach to governance and national security. Cheney openly criticized Trump's actions, particularly regarding foreign policy and the integrity of democratic institutions. His criticisms were especially pronounced following the January 6 Capitol riots, where Cheney's disapproval of Trump's rhetoric and behavior became more public, showcasing his commitment to traditional Republican values.

What impact did Cheney have on the GOP?

Cheney's impact on the GOP is significant, as he was a leading figure in shaping the party's policies during the Bush administration. He represented a hawkish approach to foreign policy and a commitment to conservative values, particularly in national defense and economic policy. However, his later criticisms of Trump and the party's shift towards populism have positioned him as a controversial figure, illustrating the evolving identity of the GOP in the current political landscape.

How do funerals reflect political dynamics?

Funerals of prominent political figures often serve as a microcosm of current political dynamics. They bring together individuals from various political backgrounds, showcasing alliances and rivalries. The attendees' choices and their relationships with the deceased can highlight existing tensions or unity within the political sphere. Cheney's funeral, marked by the absence of Trump, illustrated the fractures within the Republican Party and the ongoing ideological battles shaping its future.

What role do former presidents play at funerals?

Former presidents often play a ceremonial and symbolic role at the funerals of significant political figures, reflecting their shared experiences and contributions to the nation. Their attendance signifies respect and acknowledgment of the deceased's legacy. At Cheney's funeral, the presence of former presidents like George W. Bush and Joe Biden emphasized the importance of bipartisanship and the continuity of political discourse, even amidst differing ideologies.

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