Reports say that Cheney will be attending the inauguration in a wheelchair, having injured himself while lifting things. Cheney is moving out of government housing, so that’s why all his things have to be lifted. Why he is doing this himself, however, is unclear. A man with as many heart problems as he has and who is, as far as I know, financially doing rather well. This article breaks down the incredible amount of cash both Bush and Cheney will receive just for moving out. You’d think that 2.2 million dollar sticker would cover a U-Haul.
Maybe he’s cheap, maybe it’s a cover for something even more problematic with his health. But right now the images beg to be contrasted with FDR’s insistence on not being seen in his wheelchair. FDR wanted to appear strong to his fellow Americans and to people around the world. Could you imagine Dick Cheney putting on a brave face for anyone but himself?
The images also make for an interesting before/after comparison of how two terms in the executive office might age a person (See also: GW).
Here’s a video about DC’s injury:
