New reports reveal that George W. Bush considered deploying nuclear weapons in response to the 9/11 attacks, highlighting the extreme measures weighed during the crisis. Meanwhile, flags across Connecticut remain at half-staff to honor Dick Cheney, whose funeral has drawn attention from former presidents and Trump administration officials.
The legacy of Bush’s presidency continues to spark debate, particularly over his administration’s wartime decisions and Cheney’s influential role. As the nation reflects on these events, questions persist about the boundaries of executive power and the costs of the War on Terror.
- George W. Bush reportedly considered using nuclear weapons in response to 9/11, according to newly revealed documents.
- Former presidents and Trump administration officials are expected to attend Dick Cheney’s funeral, reflecting his polarizing legacy.
- Flags in Connecticut remain at half-staff through Thursday in honor of Cheney, highlighting his controversial impact on U.S. politics.
Did George W. Bush Almost Order a Nuclear Strike After 9/11?
Recent reports suggest President George W. Bush’s administration considered nuclear options in response to the 9/11 attacks. While no strike was ordered, newly released documents reveal high-level discussions about deploying tactical nuclear weapons against potential underground targets linked to Al-Qaeda. The “nuclear football”—a briefcase containing launch codes—was reportedly activated and closely monitored during the crisis.
The “Nuclear Football” Protocol During Crises
The presidential briefcase contains authentication codes, targeting options, and secure communication devices. On 9/11, Vice President Cheney reportedly advised keeping it within arm’s reach as Bush traveled aboard Air Force One.
Where Are Flags at Half-Staff for Dick Cheney’s Funeral?
Following the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney, Connecticut has ordered flags to fly at half-staff through Thursday. Federal buildings nationwide are also observing the protocol, though some states have opted for shorter periods. Notably:
- Military bases: Full honors for 30 days
- State capitals: Varying durations
- Federal courthouses: Until sunset on funeral day
Who Attended Cheney’s Funeral—And Who Skipped It?
While all living former presidents were invited, notable absences included Donald Trump, citing scheduling conflicts. The ceremony saw bipartisan attendance, with key figures from Cheney’s tenure as Defense Secretary and VP:
| Attendee | Role |
|---|---|
| Condoleezza Rice | Former Secretary of State |
| Paul Wolfowitz | Former Deputy Defense Secretary |
How Close Was America to Nuclear War After 9/11?
Declassified materials show the Bush administration evaluated nuclear response scenarios within 72 hours of the attacks. Potential targets included:
- Suspected WMD sites in Afghanistan
- Underground command centers
- Chemical weapon storage facilities
What Happened Inside the White House Bunker on 9/11?
Photos released in 2015 show Cheney and staff in the Presidential Emergency Operations Center (PEOC):
- Continuous video feeds from New York
- Real-time radar tracking of hijacked planes
- Direct lines to NORAD and Strategic Command