Publisher expects its author to settle scores, take no prisoners, tell all WASHINGTON - Dick Cheney is one of the most remarkable figures in American political history. There, I said it. Objectively speaking, no matter your ideology, take a step back. One can only marvel at the former vice president’s moxie, mettle and maneuverability over a storied 40-year career. Forget that the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., authored some 300 or so laws, most of which undoubtedly touched every American — Dick Cheney wrote the book on how to work the system to one’s personal advantage.