Liz Cheney, an American attorney and politician, has made significant waves in U.S. politics. As the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, she carries a legacy of political influence and clout. However, her career has been marked by her own achievements, her unwavering stance on certain issues, and her notable role in opposing former President Donald Trump. Her financial standing reflects her deep connections in Washington and her family’s long-standing prominence in politics.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education Liz Cheney Net Worth
Background and Family
Liz Cheney was born Elizabeth Lynne Cheney on July 28, 1966, in Madison, Wisconsin. Her father, Dick Cheney, served as the 46th Vice President of the United States under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. Her mother, Lynne Cheney, is an author and scholar. Growing up in such a politically active family, Liz was exposed to U.S. politics from an early age.
Her family’s political involvement undoubtedly shaped her perspective and ambitions. Being the eldest daughter of Dick Cheney, one of the most powerful figures in modern U.S. politics, Liz inherited not just the knowledge of political mechanics but also an understanding of the significance of governance and policy-making.
Education
Liz Cheney’s education background is just as impressive as her political career. She graduated from Colorado College, where she wrote her senior thesis on “The Evolution of Presidential War Powers.” Her early interest in U.S. foreign policy and constitutional matters is evident even at this stage of her life. Cheney then earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Chicago Law School, preparing her for a career that intertwined law, policy, and politics.
Political Career
Early Involvement
Before stepping into a formal political role, Liz Cheney worked in several capacities that expanded her understanding of foreign policy. In the mid-1990s, she served as a State Department official during the George H.W. Bush administration. She was also a consultant for the International Finance Corporation, an arm of the World Bank, and worked with USAID to promote democracy abroad.
Congressional Career
Liz Cheney first ran for Congress in 2014, seeking to represent Wyoming in the U.S. Senate. However, she withdrew from the race due to health issues within her family. She ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2016 and won, representing Wyoming’s at-large congressional district.
Cheney quickly rose to prominence within the Republican Party. By 2019, she had been elected as the Chair of the House Republican Conference, making her the third-highest-ranking Republican in the House of Representatives. She held this position until 2021, when her open criticism of Donald Trump led to her ousting.
Opposition to Donald Trump
One of the key aspects of Liz Cheney’s political career, and something that significantly affected her position within the Republican Party, was her opposition to Donald Trump. Cheney was one of the most vocal Republican critics of Trump’s role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. She was one of only ten Republicans who voted to impeach Trump following the incident, a move that alienated her from many within her party.
Despite facing intense backlash, Cheney has remained firm in her stance, stating that her commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law supersedes party loyalty. Her position cost her the leadership role in the House Republican Conference, and in 2022, she lost her primary election to a Trump-endorsed candidate. However, her stance has earned her respect from both Democrats and Republicans who prioritize constitutional integrity over partisanship.
Liz Cheney’s Net Worth
Financial Background
Liz Cheney’s net worth is estimated to be between $7 million and $15 million. Her wealth is derived from a combination of her political career, legal work, investments, and family wealth. As the daughter of Dick Cheney, who himself has an estimated net worth of around $100 million, Liz Cheney’s financial standing is partly influenced by her family’s economic background.
Salary as a Congresswoman
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Liz Cheney earned an annual salary of approximately $174,000. While this is a substantial income, much of her wealth is attributed to other sources, including investments, family inheritance, and speaking engagements.
Investments and Assets
Cheney has various investments that contribute to her net worth. Like many high-profile politicians, she likely holds a diverse portfolio, including stocks, bonds, and real estate. Her investments in these areas provide a significant source of passive income, adding to her overall financial standing.
Family Wealth
Dick Cheney, Liz’s father, accumulated significant wealth during his time as Vice President and through his career in the private sector. He worked as the CEO of Halliburton, one of the world’s largest oilfield service companies, from 1995 to 2000, where he received millions in salary, bonuses, and stock options. Some of this wealth has likely contributed to Liz Cheney’s financial portfolio.
Liz Cheney’s Career Outside Politics
Legal Career
Before fully stepping into the political arena, Liz Cheney had a successful legal career. She worked as an attorney at White & Case LLP, a prestigious law firm, where she specialized in international law and U.S. foreign policy. Her expertise in these areas was instrumental when she later served in various governmental roles related to foreign affairs and national security.
Author and Public Speaker
Liz Cheney has also written and co-authored books on foreign policy and U.S. politics. Her insights into governance, especially regarding national security, have made her a sought-after public speaker. She has delivered speeches at universities, think tanks, and conferences, further enhancing her public profile and providing additional income.
Role in Nonprofit Organizations
Cheney has also been involved in nonprofit work. She co-founded Keep America Safe, a nonprofit organization focused on national security issues. The organization advocated for policies that Cheney believed would strengthen America’s position globally, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
Personal Life
Family
Liz Cheney is married to Philip Perry, an accomplished attorney who has served in high-level governmental roles, including as General Counsel for the Department of Homeland Security. The couple has five children. Cheney and Perry have maintained a relatively private family life, even as Cheney’s political profile has grown.
Religion and Beliefs
Liz Cheney, like her family, is a member of the United Methodist Church. Her religious beliefs, while not as publicly discussed as some other politicians, play a role in her personal and political life. She has often cited her commitment to the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law as guiding principles in her decisions.
Legacy and Future Prospects
The January 6 Hearings
Liz Cheney’s role in the January 6 Committee, formed to investigate the attack on the U.S. Capitol, has been pivotal. As the vice chair of the committee, Cheney has been instrumental in leading the investigation and presenting findings to the American public. Her work on the committee is seen by many as a defining moment in her career, showcasing her commitment to upholding democratic principles, even at great personal and political cost.
Future in Politics
Despite her loss in the 2022 primary election, Liz Cheney’s political future remains uncertain but promising. Many speculate that she may run for higher office, potentially even considering a presidential bid. Her unwavering stance against Trumpism has positioned her as a figure of integrity within American politics, appealing to voters who prioritize the rule of law over party loyalty.
Historical Significance
Regardless of where her career takes her, Liz Cheney’s place in U.S. political history is secure. Her role in holding the Trump administration accountable for the events of January 6, 2021, and her defense of constitutional principles in the face of immense political pressure make her one of the most consequential figures of her time.
Conclusion
Liz Cheney’s net worth, estimated to be between $7 million and $15 million, is a reflection of her long career in politics, law, and public service. While her financial standing is impressive, her real legacy lies in her unwavering dedication to the Constitution and her willingness to stand up for her beliefs, even when they come at a personal and political cost. As she continues to play a significant role in U.S. politics, Liz Cheney’s influence is likely to endure, shaping the future of the Republican Party and American governance for years to come.
Also read Kevin Gates Net Worth