David Horowitz, former marxist turned Donald Trump supporter, dies at 86; family recalls last phone call with president
Death confirmed by freedom center
The announcement of his death was made on Tuesday on the social media platform X. The David Horowitz Freedom Center said, 'We are very saddened to announce the passing of the Center's founder, David Horowitz.'
On behalf of the David Horowitz Freedom Center, we are very saddened to announce the passing of the Center's founder, David Horowitz. After a lengthy battle with cancer, David passed yesterday at the age of 86. David Horowitz, 1939-2025. Requiescat in pace. pic.twitter.com/F47yooJL3K
Son shares personal tribute
As per the reports, his son, Benjamin Horowitz, co-founder of the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, shared an obituary online. In it, he reflected on his father's long career in activism and writing. The tribute also mentioned Horowitz's support for President Donald Trump.
A memorable call with Trump
Benjamin shared that when he met Trump last year, he spoke to the president about his father. Trump's response was immediate. 'President Trump's face immediately lit up and he insisted that Benjamin get David on the phone immediately,' the obituary read. Though David was in the hospital and not well, he was still happy to speak with the president.
Rest in Peace to my father @horowitz39 . We love you Dad. David Joel Horowitz was born January 10, 1939 to Phil and Blanche Horowitz in Queens, New York. David was raised in Queens along with his sister Ruth. Phil and Blanche were high school teachers and members of the… pic.twitter.com/c7PG6zE60W
A shift from Marxism to conservatism
Horowitz's political journey was notable. He was once a Marxist, but later became a prominent voice in the conservative space. He was born in Queens, New York, and pursued his education at respected institutions. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia University and later earned a Master's degree from the University of California, Berkeley.
Remembering his family
David Horowitz is survived by his wife, April Mullvain. She was his fourth wife. He also leaves behind his sons, Benjamin and Jonathan, and a daughter, Anne. Another daughter, Sarah Rose, died in 2008.
Final words from the family
The obituary shared by Benjamin described how much his father meant to those closest to him. 'In the end, David helped countless people and expended every fiber of his being pushing society towards freedom,' the family wrote. 'He may not have saved the world, but he most certainly made it a better place – especially for us. He was our super hero and we will love him forever.'
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