Cole Statement on the Passing of Former Vice President Dick Cheney

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing that former Vice President Dick Cheney passed away:

"I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney. While we did not always agree on everything, Cheney was a man I worked with on and off for over forty years in politics and government.

"Dick Cheney was a controversial and often divisive political figure, but he was deeply loyal to his family, his country, his political party, and his conservative convictions. As a former Secretary of Defense, Cheney was a proud and effective proponent for the United States military. He always believed that American leadership was indispensable in a dangerous and chaotic world.

"Even though Cheney served with distinction in the House of Representatives, he was a proponent of a strong and active executive branch. As Gerald Ford's Chief of Staff, George H.W. Bush's Secretary of Defense, and George W. Bush's Vice President, he urged the presidents he worked for to robustly use their constitutional powers at home and abroad - and more often than not they followed his advice.

"Dick Cheney was a friend to Oklahoma. When he headed up Haliburton, a company originally founded and headquartered in Duncan, Oklahoma, he saw to it that the company gave generously to the construction of the dome on Oklahoma's capital building - a project conceived and spearheaded by former Governor Frank Keating.

"During my own fiercely contested first race for Congress, Cheney and former President George W. Bush were at the height of their political popularity. At President Bush's instruction, Cheney flew to Oklahoma City and personally campaigned for me alongside Governor Keating. This is something I will never forget, as it made a difference in a contest that was fought hard and close.

"I extend my deepest sympathy to Vice President Cheney's beloved and brilliant wife, Lynn, and to the entire Cheney family. They have lost a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Additionally, America has lost a great patriot who championed American exceptionalism at home and on the world stage. May Dick Cheney rest in peace," said Congressman Cole.

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