Mike Pence says Dick Cheney told him he did the 'right thing’ by certifying 2020 election results

WASHINGTON, DC: Former Vice President Dick Cheney left a lasting mark through his leadership and principles. At his funeral on Thursday, November 20, former Vice President Mike Pence reflected on Cheney’s legacy.

In an interview with MS NOW, Pence recalled that Cheney praised him for doing “the right thing” by certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election on January 6, 2021. Pence also commended Cheney for his principles and unwavering commitment.

Cheney was laid to rest at the Washington National Cathedral, where leaders from across the political spectrum gathered to honor his life and service.

Mike Pence says Dick Cheney praised his decision to certify the 2020 election

At Dick Cheney’s funeral service, Mike Pence reflected on a meaningful moment they shared. Pence recalled that during the service, Cheney, in his “usual terse manner,” leaned over and quietly said, “You did the right thing.” Pence told Senior White House Reporter Vaughn Hillyard in an interview, “I will always cherish that.”

Pence went on to describe Cheney as a “man of principle” and a champion of the conservative agenda. “I think this nation will remember him as an extraordinary public servant who contributed greatly to the country and to the values I hold dear,” Pence added. 

Mike Pence highlights Dick Cheney’s support as Trump remains absent

Pence’s recollection of former Vice President Dick Cheney is especially notable because neither President Donald Trump nor JD Vance was invited to Cheney’s funeral.

Cheney had supported Trump in the 2016 presidential election, but his stance shifted after the January 6 events. He became an outspoken critic of Trump and, in 2024, announced he would vote for former Vice President Kamala Harris, describing Trump as a “threat to our republic.”

Mike Pence resisted Trump’s demand to overturn the 2020 election

For those who are unaware, on January 6, 2021, Congress met to officially certify Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election. Then-President Donald Trump pressured Vice President Mike Pence to reject or delay the results, but Pence refused, according to CNBC.

Pence said he did not have the constitutional authority to overturn the Electoral College vote. Later that day, a mob of Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol, some chanting “Hang Mike Pence”, in an attempt to stop the certification, as reported by The Independent.

Despite the threats, Pence carried out his duty, allowing Congress to confirm Biden’s win. His decision was widely praised, and he later received a Courage Award from the JFK Library Foundation for standing by the Constitution under intense pressure, according to AP News.