A controversial and polarizing figure, Dick Cheney’s death on Tuesday at 84 has led to many reactions around the political sphere.
Cheney transformed the role of vice president during George W. Bush’s presidency, taking a greater emphasis on influence and advocacy and shaping administration’s policy on terrorism, presidential powers and conservative politics. He was the force behind the U.S.’ involvement in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
But more than just a figure that Bush once described as the “Darth Vader” of the administration, Cheney had a nuanced background.
WTOP’s Michelle Basch and John Domen spoke to NBC News Justice Correspondent Pete Williams, who was Cheney’s press secretary and legislative assistant in Congress, and knew Cheney well.
Read and listen to the interview below.
The following transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.