Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning

Cheney discusses the events leading up to and on January 6, 2021, when a mob stormed the US Capitol. Cheney reflects on the importance of upholding the Constitution and the oath of office, even when faced with political pressure and threats.

The chapter begins with a recounting of the 2000 presidential election between Al Gore and George W. Bush. Cheney highlights the gracious concession speech by Gore as a contrast to the 2020 election and the actions of Donald Trump.

Cheney describes how Trump’s false claims of election fraud and his call for supporters to “fight like hell” created a tense atmosphere leading up to January 6. She details how she acknowledged the potential for danger and arranged private security due to safety concerns.

On January 6, Cheney spoke to emphasize the importance of Congress’s role and its lack of authority to overturn elections. She also mentioned the performative signing of electoral objections by some members, criticizing it as a show of loyalty to Trump.

Cheney’s father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, warned her about the dangers posed by Trump’s rhetoric and the crowd’s anger. Despite the threats, Cheney remained committed to her duty to uphold the Constitution and refused to be silenced by fear.