Trump SKIPS Cheney’s Funeral; Former Presidents to Attend

UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump has announced he will skip the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney, scheduled for November 20, 2023, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. This decision follows Trump’s exclusion from the list of speakers at the service, raising eyebrows given the historical tensions between the two political figures.

Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2023, at the age of 84 due to complications from pneumonia and heart disease, was a vocal critic of Trump. In a striking statement last year, Cheney labeled Trump as “the greatest threat” to the republic, asserting that he “tried to steal the last election using lies and violence.” Cheney’s remarks have left a lasting mark on the political landscape, especially among his party’s ranks.

According to a report by USA Today, former Presidents George W. Bush and Joe Biden are confirmed to attend the funeral, with Bush set to deliver a eulogy. Trump’s absence is particularly notable as he has not only been a central figure in recent political discourse but also had a contentious relationship with Cheney, who was a prominent advocate for traditional Republican values.

A senior White House official confirmed that Trump was “not aware of anyone else on his staff” attending the invitation-only service. The official also stated that the former president was aware of Cheney’s death and that flags had been lowered to half-staff in his honor.

This development is significant as it underscores the ongoing rift within the Republican Party, particularly as leaders from different factions navigate their legacies in the wake of Cheney’s passing. The funeral is expected to highlight not only Cheney’s contributions to American politics but also the deep divides that have emerged in recent years.

As the nation prepares to bid farewell to Cheney, the spotlight will inevitably shift to how his legacy will be remembered and how it might influence the future of the Republican Party. With the funeral just days away, all eyes will be on the attendees and the messages conveyed during this pivotal moment.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.