Elizabeth Lynne “Liz” Cheney, born on July 28, 1966, in Madison, Wisconsin, is an American attorney and Republican politician widely recognized for her courage and principle-driven leadership. As the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, she grew up in a politically influential family that deeply shaped her views on governance and patriotism.
Cheney served as the U.S. Representative for Wyoming’s at-large congressional district from 2017 to 2023. During her tenure, she gained national prominence for her conservative policies and her outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump, particularly for his role in the January 6 Capitol attack. Her commitment to upholding the Constitution, even against her own party, positioned her as one of the most respected and polarizing figures in modern American politics.
Quick Facts of Liz Cheney
| Full Name | Elizabeth Lynne Cheney |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 28, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | Madison, Wisconsin, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | B.A. from Colorado College; J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School |
| Career Beginnings | Attorney at White & Case; International Finance Corporation |
| Notable Roles | U.S. Representative (2017–2023), Vice Chair of the January 6 Committee |
| Spouse | Philip Perry (m. 1993) |
| Children | Five |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $47 million (as of 2024) |
| Major Achievements | Chair of House Republican Conference, Profile in Courage Award recipient |
Early Life and Family Background
Liz Cheney was born into a family deeply connected to American politics. Her father, Dick Cheney, served as the 46th Vice President of the United States, while her mother, Lynne Cheney, is an accomplished author and former Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Growing up in such an environment, Liz developed a strong sense of civic duty and an appreciation for the responsibilities of public service.
The Cheney family’s frequent relocations due to her father’s political career gave Liz exposure to different communities across the U.S. This diverse upbringing fostered her respect for America’s regional identities and strengthened her understanding of the nation’s cultural and political fabric.
Education
Liz Cheney’s academic journey reflected her passion for law and government. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado College, where her senior thesis explored the evolution of presidential war powers. Later, she obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School, one of the nation’s top law programs. Her education gave her a strong grounding in constitutional law, which later guided her approach to policymaking.
Career Beginnings and Political Rise
After law school, Cheney joined White & Case, a global law firm, where she gained valuable legal experience. She also worked with the International Finance Corporation, a branch of the World Bank, focusing on international project finance. Her expertise in foreign policy led to her appointment as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs during the George W. Bush administration, where she worked to promote democracy in the Middle East.
In 2016, Cheney was elected to represent Wyoming in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her quick rise in the Republican Party culminated in her becoming Chair of the House Republican Conference in 2019, the third-highest leadership position in the House. This achievement reflected her growing influence and political acumen.
Notable Works and Achievements
Cheney’s political career is defined by her dedication to national security, conservative values, and constitutional integrity. However, her decision to challenge Donald Trump’s actions following the 2020 election cemented her reputation as a defender of democratic principles. As Vice Chair of the January 6 Committee, she played a pivotal role in investigating the Capitol attack, emphasizing accountability and the rule of law.
Her courage earned her the Profile in Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation in 2022. In December 2023, Cheney released her bestselling memoir, Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning, offering a candid reflection on the challenges facing American democracy and her personal experiences in Congress.
Personal Life and Family
Liz Cheney married Philip Perry, an accomplished attorney, in 1993. Perry has served as General Counsel for the Department of Homeland Security and is a partner at Latham & Watkins, a prominent law firm. The couple has five children and maintains a private family life, balancing their professional commitments with family responsibilities.
Despite her demanding career, Cheney often emphasizes the importance of family and values instilled by her parents. Her husband’s own public service career complements her lifelong dedication to governance and law.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2024, Liz Cheney’s net worth is estimated at $47 million, marking substantial growth from earlier reports. Her wealth stems from her legal career, book sales, investments, and inheritance from her father. Cheney owns multiple properties, including:
- Virginia Home – Valued at around $1.6 million
- Washington, D.C. Condo – Worth approximately $500,000
- Wyoming Ranch – A scenic 1,000-acre estate in Teton County
- Jackson Hole Log Home – Valued at nearly $1.9 million
These assets highlight her financial success and enduring connection to Wyoming’s natural beauty. Her diverse income sources, including royalties and investments, allow her to focus on political and philanthropic pursuits rather than luxury living.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Political Legacy: As Dick Cheney’s daughter, Liz grew up immersed in politics, shaping her interest in government early on.
- Author and Thinker: She co-authored Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America (2015) with her father.
- Defender of Democracy: Her strong stance on protecting democratic institutions has made her both admired and criticized within her party.
- Legal Expertise: Cheney’s law background continues to inform her perspective on constitutional and foreign policy issues.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Beyond politics, Cheney actively supports initiatives promoting education, democracy, and civic engagement. She has encouraged young Americans to participate in government and to value principle-driven leadership. Her willingness to prioritize integrity over partisanship has earned her admiration from across the political spectrum.
Cheney’s political legacy continues to evolve, but her bravery in defending democratic norms has already left a lasting imprint on American political culture.
Future Outlook and Cultural Influence
Looking forward, Cheney remains a powerful voice in U.S. politics. Though she has not announced any new political ambitions, her endorsement of Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential election showcased her bipartisan stance and dedication to protecting democracy.
Her story has redefined political courage in the modern era — reminding Americans that leadership rooted in conviction can rise above party loyalty. Whether through her books, interviews, or advocacy, Liz Cheney’s impact on political culture will continue to resonate for years to come.
