Former senior adviser to the White House, Karl Rove, shared his thoughts on former President George W. Bush’s selection of Dick Cheney as his running mate in the 2000 election, indicating he wasn’t in favor of the choice.
During a segment on Fox News, Rove was asked by anchor Bill Hemmer whether he supported Bush’s decision to pick Cheney, who had passed away the previous night. Rove responded with a laugh, saying, “No. In fact, the president, the governor at the time, called me… He was returning from campaigning and knew I was against the idea. He said, ‘I want you to come to the governor’s mansion tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. I need you to make a case for why I shouldn’t go along with Cheney.’”
Rove mentioned that he still holds on to a paper listing “eight reasons” against Cheney’s selection, one of which was Cheney’s heart attack at 37, along with public concerns about his longevity.
He recounted a conversation he had with Bush, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an independent image for the president, not merely being seen as his father’s successor. Rove humorously noted how their discussion turned intense, comparing it to the World Wrestling Federation. In the end, he found himself quite flustered.
After Rove’s arguments, Bush reportedly acknowledged his points. Rove described Cheney sitting quietly and listening throughout the conversation, before Bush turned to him and asked if he had any questions for Rove.
As Cheney departed the meeting, Rove recalled mimicking Cheney’s iconic voice, suggesting that he agreed with certain points made during their discussion.
Rove explained that Bush chose Cheney primarily for his decision-making skills and his loyalty, as well as his familiarity with the workings of the White House.
The bond between Rove and Cheney grew stronger over the years. He referred to Cheney as a “great, good man” during the interview. Cheney’s family confirmed his passing at age 84 due to complications from pneumonia and cardiovascular issues.
Before his vice presidency, Cheney held several notable positions, including chief of staff for Gerald Ford and secretary of defense under George H.W. Bush. During his time as vice president, he was a staunch advocate for the War on Terror, becoming one of the most influential figures in recent U.S. history.
Cheney had previously suggested links between the September 11 attacks and Iraq, alleging that Iraqi forces would welcome U.S. troops as liberators—a claim that ultimately didn’t materialize. In 2014, a Senate Intelligence Committee report revealed the use of enhanced interrogation techniques during the War on Terror, but Cheney defended those actions, asserting, “We’ll do it again in a heartbeat.”
