A notable seating arrangement at the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney has sparked wide interest on social media.
A video posted by Threads user @thebidensinfocus shows dignitaries gathered at the November 20, 2025 service. In the clip, former President George W. Bush sits with former first lady Laura Bush, followed by former President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden, then former Vice President Kamala Harris, and former Vice President Mike Pence with his wife, Karen Pence. The post has received more than 452,000 views, with many viewers focused on the symbolism of former political rivals sitting side by side.
Dick Cheney, who served as the 46th vice president of the United States from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush, previously held roles as U.S. secretary of defense and White House chief of staff. Known for his outsized influence on American national security policy — particularly after 9/11 and during the Iraq War — he died on November 3, 2025, at age 84.
The funeral was held at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and was an invitation-only ceremony.
George W. Bush delivered a eulogy and recalled the moment he decided to select Cheney as his running mate.
“I remember my dad’s words [former President George Bush] when I told him what I was planning. He said, ‘Son, you couldn’t pick a better man,’” Bush said, as reported by ABC News.
Noticeable absences included current President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were reportedly not invited.
On Threads, many users commented on the gathering of leaders from across the political spectrum.
“Where’s the Obamas?” asked Dianne Johnson.
“So is it protocol that only former VPs attend Cheney’s funeral?… That would explain why the Clintons nor Obamas are there,” wrote Lamsom.
There is no formal rule requiring only former vice presidents to attend the funeral of another ex–vice president. High-profile services at Washington National Cathedral are typically invitation-only, with the guest list determined by the family and event organizers rather than by government protocol.
In this case, several former presidents and vice presidents from both major parties were invited and attended the service. The Associated Press reported that other former presidents, including Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, were invited but did not attend.
Commenters also reacted to moments from the ceremony itself. One observer wrote, “Notice how Joe Biden lights up as the choir sings ‘America’. That man loves this country with all his heart.”
Another viewer, Sally, reflected, “The funeral has been a beautiful family tribute to Cheney… I was not a fan of Cheney and was touched by how fiercely his family loved him.”
“That’s because they are gentlemen and gentle ladies! Who have respect for people and our Country,” Fred commented.
“You may not agree with all the political views of everyone seated here but you must respect the honor and decency of all these true leaders, coming together to honor a man that played a significant role in our country and democracy for a large portion of his life,” another user added.
“I miss normalcy, respect, compassion,” said Aileen.
