Home Depot co-founder, GOP donor Bernie Marcus dead at 95
SUMMARY
Bernie Marcus, co-founder of Home Depot, passed away at 95. Born to poor Russian immigrants in New Jersey, Marcus rose to become a self-made billionaire, amassing a fortune exceeding $11 billion after launching the home improvement giant in 1978 alongside Arthur Blank and investor Ken Langone. A dedicated Republican donor, Marcus supported former President Trump and frequently criticized President Biden's economic policies, blaming them for inflation and economic strain on the middle class. Beyond business, Marcus was a passionate philanthropist. The Marcus Foundation, established with his wife Billi, donated over $2 billion to various causes, emphasizing small business advocacy and preserving capitalism. He also founded the Job Creators Network, promoting the role of small enterprises in the U.S. economy. Part of "The Giving Pledge," Marcus committed to donating most of his wealth to charity.
