Key Highlights
- Former Vice President Dick Cheney died on Monday, November 3.
- Flags have been flown at half-staff since the White House and across the United States.
- President Donald Trump has not yet publicly addressed Cheney’s death or issued a proclamation.
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also did not issue his own proclamation, but ordered flags to be lowered for other figures in recent years.
The Death of Dick Cheney and its Political Implications
Former Vice President Richard (Dick) Cheney passed away on Monday, November 3, at the age of 84. His death has raised questions about the political atmosphere and the reactions of key figures in American politics.
Flags at Half-Staff
The passing of a high-profile figure like Dick Cheney prompts a significant response from the government. Flags across the United States have been flown at half-staff since his death, as per statutory law.
Lack of Official Response from Trump and DeSantis
Despite the traditional protocol for such an occasion, President Donald Trump has not yet issued a statement or a proclamation to honor Cheney’s passing. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump was “aware” of Cheney’s death but no public address or official action has been taken.
DeSantis’ Inaction and Historical Context
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also did not issue a proclamation to lower flags for Cheney. However, it is worth noting that he had ordered flags lowered in the past for other political figures such as former President Jimmy Carter and former U.S. Senator Bob Graham. In addition, he has issued proclamations for various local officials, first responders, and even celebrities like Hulk Hogan.
Political Relations and Reactions
The lack of a public response from both Trump and DeSantis is noteworthy given their contentious relationship with Cheney. Cheney had criticized Trump harshly, calling him “a threat to the republic” in 2022. In return, Trump called Cheney’s daughter Liz a “deranged person.” Despite these tensions, it remains unclear why they have not issued statements.
Future Implications and Protocol
The situation raises questions about political protocol and how future administrations might handle similar situations. The traditional process of lowering flags at half-staff is a clear sign of respect for former public figures, but the absence of official statements from key politicians could be seen as a reflection of current political dynamics.
As of November 6, there have been no public comments from other Republican politicians such as Senator Ashley Moody or Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Florida Rep.
Byron Donalds, who is running for governor in 2026, has also not made any statements.
The exact details of Cheney’s funeral and its location remain undisclosed by his family and the White House. Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, and grew up in Wyoming, where he later retired. His funeral would likely take place in one of these states.
While flags are typically flown at half-staff for 30 days after a president’s death, this period may be extended to the day of interment for former vice presidents. The protocol for such events is currently under review by Republican leadership, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune considering the possibility of Cheney receiving a state funeral.
The handling of Cheney’s passing and the lack of official responses from key figures highlight the complex political landscape in the United States and the evolving dynamics between political parties and their leaders.
