Dr. James Dobson, Influential Evangelical Leader, Dies at 89

Dr. James Dobson, a prominent evangelical leader who advised four U.S. presidents and shaped conservative family values, passed away at 89. A key figure in U.S. conservative politics, Dobson’s legacy includes founding Focus on the Family and influencing generations through his advocacy for faith and traditional family structures.

Born in Louisiana in 1936, Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977 with a mission to uphold "the God-ordained institution of the family." The ministry grew into one of the world’s largest, operating in nearly 100 countries. His radio program reached millions, broadcast on 4,000 stations across North America, amplifying his influence on Christian and conservative audiences.

Dobson authored over 70 books, starting with Dare to Discipline (1970), which promoted strict parenting and corporal punishment. Written while he was an associate clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of California School of Medicine, the book established him as a leading voice in family dynamics.

In 1981, Dobson founded the Family Research Council, a think-tank advocating for socially conservative policies, and coordinated state-level lobbying efforts. His influence extended to advising Republican presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump, including serving on Trump’s evangelical advisory board and endorsing him in the 2020 election.

Dobson’s political impact was profound, though he never sought public office. Appointed by Reagan in 1982 to a national youth justice advisory committee, he later provided counsel during both Bush administrations and vocally supported Trump during his impeachment hearings. His organizations shaped conservative discourse on issues like marriage, parenting, and religious liberty.

Gary Bauer of the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute called him a "pioneer" whose "deep conviction shaped how generations view faith, family, and culture."

Dobson’s outspoken views sparked controversies. In 2014, he labeled President Barack Obama "the abortion president" at a National Day of Prayer event, prompting former Congresswoman Janice Hahn to walk out. His hardline stance on LGBTQ+ issues, including his 1973 resignation from the American Psychological Association over its declassification of homosexuality as a mental disorder, drew significant criticism. In 2010, the Southern Poverty Law Center designated the Family Research Council a hate group for its anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, a label the group rejected.

Dobson dismissed critics in a 2019 newsletter, claiming "left-wing activists typically hate committed Christians" for challenging their "godless worldview." He celebrated the 2022 Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, stating it returned abortion legality "to the people to decide—where it belonged in the first place."

Dr. James Dobson’s work through Focus on the Family and the Family Research Council left an indelible mark on evangelical and conservative movements. His advocacy for traditional family values, faith-based principles, and socially conservative policies continues to resonate.