Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows paid tribute to former Vice President Dick Cheney on Tuesday, recalling his profound impact on the role of vice president and American politics. Cheney, who died at 84, was remembered by Meadows as a figure whose institutional expertise reshaped governance.
Meadows, who served in a similar West Wing role under President Gerald Ford, highlighted Cheney’s unique qualifications, noting his experience as chief of staff, congressman, and secretary of defense. He emphasized Cheney’s ability to navigate the White House during critical moments, such as the 9/11 attacks, and credited him with redefining the vice presidency from a ceremonial position to a central decision-making force.
“The modern vice presidency is defined by Dick Cheney,” Meadows stated. “His influence set a standard that continues today, as seen in Vice President JD Vance’s active role under President Trump.” He also acknowledged Cheney’s ties to the neoconservative movement, though he noted its evolution toward more populist governance.
Meadows praised Cheney’s lifelong public service, including his tenure as the youngest White House chief of staff at 34, and stressed his deep understanding of government operations. As the nation mourned, Meadows underscored Cheney’s lasting legacy in shaping high-level political leadership.
