Former Representative Liz Cheney addressed political loyalty at her father’s funeral service on Thursday, November 20, 2025, indirectly criticizing President Donald Trump and his Republican supporters.
Speaking at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Cheney paid tribute to her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3 at age 84. The service attracted numerous political figures, including two former presidents and all four living former vice presidents. Notably absent were Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were not invited.
During her eulogy, Cheney shared how her father was urged to enter politics after hearing President John F. Kennedy speak at the University of Wyoming. Her comments extended beyond a biographical tribute.
“Though he was inspired to service by President Kennedy, Dick Cheney became a Republican,” she said. “But he knew that bonds of party must always yield to the single bond we share as Americans. For him, a choice between defense of the Constitution and defense of your political party was no choice at all.”
The comment was significant given the strained relationship between the Cheney family and Trump. Dick Cheney, who served as vice president under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, initially supported Trump’s 2016 campaign. However, he became critical of Trump after the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
In 2022, Dick Cheney referred to Trump as a “coward,” marking a departure from his earlier endorsement. He voted for Democratic candidate and then-Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, illustrating his break from Trump’s Republican Party.
The White House’s response to Cheney’s death was subdued. Trump did not publicly offer condolences. Vance provided limited commentary, calling Dick Cheney “a guy who served his country.”
Former Vice President Mike Pence, who served under Trump, recalled at the service how Cheney praised him for certifying the 2020 election results, despite threats from Trump supporters. Pence’s remarks emphasized Cheney’s dedication to constitutional processes.
Liz Cheney has faced frequent criticism from Trump since January 6. As a congresswoman, she joined a bipartisan group investigating the insurrection and Trump’s 2020 election actions. This choice distanced her from party loyalists and drew threats from Trump.
The former Wyoming congresswoman’s opposition to Trump led to political isolation, in contrast to her father’s era, when GOP divisions were less pronounced over loyalty to a single leader.
Dick Cheney’s legacy is complex and debated. Known for his role in the Iraq War, he remains a significant conservative figure from a different Republican era. His career spanned multiple Republican administrations before the party’s changes under Trump.
The funeral showcased political figures across generations and ideologies. The attendance of former presidents and vice presidents highlighted Cheney’s long governmental career and connections. The exclusion of current White House leaders emphasized the divide between traditional Republicans and the Trump-led party.
Liz Cheney’s eulogy underscored her father’s belief in constitutional principles and national unity over party allegiance. This stance contrasts with the current political atmosphere, where many Republicans prioritize loyalty to Trump.
