Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning

Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning (2023) by Liz Cheney is a political memoir that presents an insider’s perspective on the events of the January 6 assault on the US Capitol. Cheney, an American attorney and politician who held the position of US Representative for Wyoming’s at-large congressional district, offers a detailed narrative of the political and social turmoil during this time. Her role as a prominent figure in American politics—augmented by her unique viewpoint as the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney—infuses her analysis with credibility and insight. The book explores themes such as The Integrity of American Democracy, Upholding Constitutional Duties, and Political Leadership in Times of Crisis, examining the fortitude of democratic institutions, the moral obligations of political figures, and the nuances of leadership amidst national crises. Cheney’s other books are co-authored with her father: In My Time: A Personal and Political Memoir (2011), which is about Dick Cheney’s political career, and Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America (2015), a manifesto for modern-day American exceptionalism.

This guide is based on the Little, Brown and Company 2023 e-book edition. Citations are page numbers in this edition.

Content Warning: This guide includes descriptions of political violence.

Summary

Cheney delivers a detailed account of the events linked to the 2020 US presidential election and the January 6 incursion on the Capitol. Cheney, a senior Republican politician, provides a behind-the-scenes look at these occurrences, stressing the necessity of honoring constitutional duties and maintaining the integrity of American democracy.

The Prologue depicts Cheney’s view of the disintegration of American democracy post-2020 election. Cheney characterizes President Donald Trump as a president who undermined the Constitution to illegitimately grasp power. She posits that the bulwarks of democracy hinge on officials placing their constitutional responsibilities above party allegiance.

Part 1 concentrates on the aftermath of the election, chronicling Trump’s refusal to concede and his campaign’s unfounded allegations of election fraud. Cheney sheds light on the internal dynamics within the House Republicans, the mounting threats of aggression from Trump’s supporters, and the rhetoric of Trump and his close advisors. She espouses the significance of adhering to constitutional mandates, pointing out the friction within the Republican Party and the challenges to the rule of law.

Part 2 narrates the events of January 6, detailing the breaching of the Capitol and the swift evacuation of Cheney and other Representatives from the House chamber. Cheney underscores the severity of the situation, the widespread resolve to safeguard the nation’s democracy, and her disillusionment with Republican House Leader Kevin McCarthy for deceiving her about his intentions regarding electoral objections.

In Part 3, Cheney reflects on the repercussions of the January 6 attack, including resignations within the Trump administration and internal conflicts in the Republican Party. She contemplates the impeachment of Trump, presenting herself dedicated to truth and the Constitution, and details the obstacles encountered in Wyoming due to her views on Trump and the post-election crisis. Cheney also expounds on the formation of the January 6 Select Committee and its endeavors to unravel the truth behind the events.

Part 4 details the Select Committee’s inquiry, elucidating Cheney’s decision to sit on the committee, the selection of its members, and the initial hearings. Cheney highlights the testimonies of Capitol Police officers, the legal contest over Trump’s White House documents, and the hurdles in securing cooperation from crucial witnesses.

In Part 5, Cheney elaborates on the planning and execution of the hearings on the January 6 attack. She describes the committee’s efforts to present evidence and testimony from Republican authorities and witnesses, emphasizing the investigative role of the committee and the imperative of revealing the truth irrespective of potential political repercussions. Cheney also talks about the committee’s progression toward its final report and criminal referrals, underlining the contributions of individual committee members and staff in this vital undertaking.

The Epilogue reflects on the historic peaceful transfer of power in America, with Cheney referencing President Ford’s concession to Jimmy Carter. She underscores the necessity for leaders to relinquish power for the betterment of the nation and voices concerns about the potential ramifications if Trump were to reassume power. Cheney urges the American populace to defend the Constitution and the nation’s institutions by thwarting his election in 2024.

Through Oath and Honor, Cheney delivers a detailed analysis of a significant recent juncture in American history, highlighting the important of defending democratic principles and the rule of law.