Capitol News

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has directed that U.S. and Michigan flags at the State Capitol Complex and on all public buildings and grounds across Michigan be lowered to half-staff in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney, following federal law. The flags will remain at half-staff until his internment.

"Former Vice President Cheney was a dedicated public servant,” said Governor Whitmer. “From interning in Congress to serving as the Vice President of the United States, Dick Cheney spent his life working for the American people. He was also a loving father, grandfather, and husband. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.”

Dick Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, and earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. His career began as an intern for Congressman William A. Steiger before he served in the U.S. House of Representatives and later as Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush. In July 2000, he became the running mate for Republican presidential nominee George W. Bush and served as Vice President for eight years.

Cheney died at age 84 at his family home.

The state is encouraging residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and organizations to lower their flags to half-staff as well. Flags should first be raised briefly to the peak before being lowered to half-staff; this process is reversed when taking down the flag for the day. Flags are to return to full staff after internment.