Rachel Maddow Among Unexpected Mourners at Dick Cheney's Funeral, Signaling Political Realignment

Washington D.C. – The recent funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney drew a diverse array of political figures, including MSNBC host Rachel Maddow, whose attendance sparked widespread discussion and highlighted a significant shift in political alliances. Maddow, a long-time vocal critic of Cheney's policies during the Bush administration, was observed among prominent mourners, underscoring a complex political landscape shaped by opposition to former President Donald Trump. Her presence alongside other Democrats and former Vice Presidents marked a notable moment in Washington's evolving political dynamics.

Independent journalist Glenn Greenwald, a former colleague of Maddow's, commented on the unexpected turn of events. "Maddow's career as a commentator began during Bush/Cheney, when she'd frequently compare Cheney to the worst monsters in history (I was on her programs when she said it)," Greenwald posted on social media. He added, "For so many liberals, Cheney is now rehabilitated despite regretting nothing: solely for opposing Trump." This sentiment reflects a broader observation among political commentators regarding Cheney's changed perception.

Dick Cheney, who served as Vice President from 2001 to 2009, became an outspoken critic of Donald Trump in recent years. This opposition culminated in his endorsement of then-Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris against Trump in the 2024 election, a move that surprised many and garnered appreciation from some liberal circles. His daughter, former Representative Liz Cheney, also became a prominent figure in the anti-Trump Republican movement, further aligning the Cheney family with a stance previously unthinkable for staunch conservatives.

The funeral, held at Washington National Cathedral, saw a bipartisan gathering that included former Presidents George W. Bush and Joe Biden, former Vice Presidents Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore, and Dan Quayle. Notably absent were former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were not invited to the service. The gathering itself was seen by many as a reflection of a bygone era of Republican politics, now contrasted sharply with the Trump-dominated party.

Following the service, Maddow acknowledged her past disagreements with Cheney's policies but expressed admiration for his recent actions. She stated that Cheney had changed the country "in ways that I almost 100 percent disagree with," but added that she admired his support for his daughter's stand against Trump, calling it "a really heroic stand." This complex sentiment encapsulates the current political environment where traditional ideological lines are often redrawn based on shared opposition to specific figures.