What better way to kick off the weekend than with our country very own Vice President Dick Cheney. This is the first time I’ve seen him speak in person, and I am struck by his humility, sense of humor, and ability to make fun of himself while at the same time maintaining a powerful sense of character and honor. As the last time he will address CPAC as our Vice President, there is somewhat surprisingly little sentimentality, only a confidence in the achievements of the past seven years and satisfaction in knowing that America, as well as the rest of the world, is left a better place than it was before he and the President began their terms in office.

In typical Cheney style, his words are simple and direct. He discusses the economy, the issue of greatest concern during the past year, explaining that “Seven years ago our economy was headed toward a recession.” However, because President Bush acted quickly, a recession was prevented even after the disastrous effects of September 11, 2001. The Bush administration understands that “the best way to promote economic growth is to put money back in the hands” of those who work for it. In the economic stimulus package being planned, “not a single person in the country will see a tax increase.” (Would the democrats please explain how this is a bad thing?)

Moving on to the topic of national security and the war, the Vice President has nothing but praises for his friend and President: “George Bush is a man of principle and a man of his word.” Never crediting himself with any of the administration’s accomplishments, Cheney lists the successes of the administration as the results of President Bush. Because of him, the United States is a safer nation, for “the absence of another 9-11 is not an accident – it is an achievement!” Thanks to our interrogation of terrorists, we have “uncovered information that has saved thousands of lives.” Cheney then lauds General Petraeus and our troops, reminding us that “we will never lack for inspiration in this fight because we need only look to our American heroes in uniform.”

As he winds up, Cheney exudes pride in his past two terms: “I’ve been proud to support the decisions (President Bush) has made. And would I support those decisions today? You’re damn straight I would.” You gotta love a straight-talker.

Dick Cheney, often-called “America’s most powerful Vice President,” is a man who knows what he’s talking about. And when he tells us that our nation is more united and more secure today, I’m apt to believe him.

Mr. Vice President, thank you for all your efforts these last seven years.