Liz Cheney is Dick Cheney’s eldest daughter, yes. Elizabeth Lynne Cheney, also known as Liz Cheney, is born in Madison, Wisconsin on July 28, 1966, as the second child of former Vice President Richard Bruce ‘Dick’ Cheney and Lynne Cheney. As members of one of America’s most prominent political families, both Liz and Dick Cheney have had important roles in American politics, even though each has pursued that role in different ways with different priorities.
Who were they, their political careers, family dynamics and what role did they play in the shaping the political landscape — let’s take a closer look.
The Cheney Family Background
Cheney’s Political Career
Few would question that Dick Cheney is one of the most powerful vice presidents ever in US history. Cheney was the 46th Vice President of the Unitied States of America from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush; he played an important role in setting U.S. domestic and foreign policy during an eventful period for U.S. history after the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Before becoming Vice President, Cheney held several prominent roles, including:
- Chief of Staff at the White House under President Gerald Ford (1975–1977)
- Where he oversaw Operation Desert Storm, Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush (1989–1993)
- Congressman from Wyoming
He is remembered during his time as Vice President for his tendency to brandish a tough line on national security, backing the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and for stamping his authority on expanding executive power.
To learn more about Dick Cheney’s career check his Wikipedia page.
Liz Cheney’s Political Career
Like her father before her, Liz Cheney went into politics. She served representing Wyoming’s at large congressional district in the US House of Representatives from 2017 to 2023, and quickly became a powerful voice in the Republican party.
She was House Republican Conference Chair, the third ranking position in House Republicans. But her time was plagued with escalating party tension.
The former vice president railed against Donald Trump because of her outspoken criticism of the former president in the wake of the January 6 Capitol attack. A Congressional loss in 2022 followed from her willingness to put principles ahead of the party line. In spite of it all, she continues to be a voice for democracy and accountability.
Family Dynamics and Political Stances
Kamala Harris Has the Cheney Family’s Support
Liz Cheney and her father, Dick Cheney, both surprised everyone by supporting Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. The decision further reflects their increased worries of just where the Republican Party is headed under the sway of Donald Trump.
At the Texas Tribune Festival, Liz Cheney declared Dick Cheney would vote for Kamala Harris, a stark break from her party’s nominee. This reflects the Cheneys’ principles of democracy over beyond partisan allegiance, their stance.
Differences on Same Sex Marriage Among Families
The Cheney family has also seen fractures over social issues, most recently same sex marriage.
Mary Cheney, the openly gay daughter of Liz’s who is married to her longtime partner, is Liz Cheney’s younger sister. Previously, Liz publicly lambasted same sex marriage, which has split the family from within. The disagreement drew particular media attention and Mary and her wife were disappointed by Liz’s position.
However, Dick Cheney rallied in support of Mary and her right to marry, telling us, “Freedom means freedom for everyone.” The family seems to have made up over time, but the episode drew attention to the difficulties of balancing out personal beliefs in a political family.
Continuing the Cheney Legacy
Dick and Liz Cheneys a force still in American politics, both planting seeds of public discourse in their time. His wife, Liz Cheney, made a different mark — for her willingness to challenge and alienate her own party to uphold democratic values.
Distinct in their political journeys, they have both taken vocations in service and a creed in the primacy of principles over political partisanship.
Conclusion
You betcha, Liz Cheney is actually Dick Cheney’s eldest daughter, and no unfamiliar face when it comes to politics. They both have guided American politics in profound ways, both of them meeting the challenge of their day with conviction and commitment.
It is a reminder about legacy, family, and giving your word and standing firm in doing so — even if that means going against party norms. From Dick Cheney’s leadership in times of crises to Liz Cheney’s unfaltering declaration of democratic principles, the Cheney family’s impact on American politics will not be forgotten.
Sources – Dick Cheney – Wikipedia, Liz Cheney’s remarks on Kamala Harris & Cheney family and same-sex marriage.
Mia Trevino (She/Her) is a Records Administrator at Dinsmore & Shohl LLP. A proud Humble High School alumna from Texas, she excels in managing organizational records with precision and dedication.
