David Horowitz, a former Marxist who transformed into an influential conservative voice, has died at 86 after a prolonged battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that profoundly shaped America’s political discourse.
Key Takeaways
- David Horowitz, founder of the David Horowitz Freedom Center, passed away at age 86 after battling cancer.
- Horowitz underwent a dramatic political transformation from Marxist roots to becoming one of America’s most prominent conservative commentators.
- His ideological shift was triggered by disillusionment with leftist movements in 1969 and solidified after the death of colleague Betty Van Patter in 1975.
- Conservative leaders including Mark Levin and organizations like PragerU paid tribute to his significant influence on the conservative movement.
- His 40-year advocacy for conservative causes included founding FrontPage Magazine and becoming a frequent speaker at Young America’s Foundation events.
From Marxist Beginnings to Conservative Icon
Born on January 10, 1939, in New York, David Horowitz was raised in a household steeped in left-wing ideology. His early career reflected these influences as he edited the left-wing magazine “Root & Branch” during his college years. By 1969, however, Horowitz began experiencing a profound disillusionment with the leftist movement that would eventually lead to his complete political transformation. This ideological journey was further catalyzed by his association with Black Panther leader Huey Newton and the tragic death of his colleague Betty Van Patter in 1975.
In his own words, Horowitz “realized, even at that time, you couldn’t really remake the world as the left intended without totalitarian coercion.” This realization marked the beginning of his shift toward conservative politics. By 1984, his transformation was complete when he cast his vote for Republican President Ronald Reagan, officially breaking from his leftist past. He later documented this intellectual journey in a piece for the New York Times Magazine, providing insight into the experiences that shaped his political evolution.
Conservative commentator David Horowitz dead at 86 https://t.co/QWy5vYVz9Z pic.twitter.com/yKmI9ju2D1
— New York Post (@nypost) April 30, 2025
Building a Conservative Legacy
In 1988, Horowitz established the David Horowitz Freedom Center, which would become his platform for advocating conservative causes for over four decades. The organization announced his passing with a touching statement, writing, “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.”
As his influence in conservative circles grew, Horowitz authored numerous books critically examining Democratic Party policies. He also launched FrontPage Magazine, an online publication of the Freedom Center that further extended his reach in conservative media. His unwavering commitment to conservative principles made him a respected voice among right-leaning audiences and a formidable opponent to progressive causes he once championed.
Tributes from Conservative Leaders
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from prominent conservative figures and organizations. Radio host Mark Levin wrote, “I’m so sorry to hear that David Horowitz has passed away. He was a great advocate for our country and a brave voice against the Left. He spent most of his remarkable and consequential life battling the communists, Islamists, and radicals. He knew how dangerous they are, as he was one of them early in his life. RIP, David Horowitz. Thank you for your patriotism.”
Benjamin Horowitz, David’s son, shared a touching story about introducing his father to President Donald Trump. According to Benjamin, even during Horowitz’s hospitalization, Trump was eager to speak with him, demonstrating the respect Horowitz commanded in conservative political circles. Former U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell honored Horowitz as a “great warrior,” while the Young America’s Foundation acknowledged his impact as a frequent speaker who inspired countless students at their events.
Gabriella Hoffman recalled a memorable campus event with Horowitz at UC-San Diego in 2010 that went viral, further illustrating his influence in shaping political discourse on college campuses. His willingness to engage in controversial discussions and challenge prevailing progressive narratives at universities made him both a polarizing figure and a champion of conservative values in academic settings.
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Video: Conservative icon dies at 86 from cancer
Conservatives pay tribute following death of David Horowitz
