Former Trump Adviser and Evangelical Leader Dr. James Dobson Dies at 89
Dr. James Dobson, the renowned evangelical leader, psychologist, and former adviser to President Donald Trump, passed away Thursday at the age of 89. Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson spent more than half a century shaping the landscape of American evangelical life, becoming one of the most recognizable voices advocating for faith, marriage, and family values.
Dobson first gained national prominence in the 1970s when he founded Focus on the Family, a ministry that rapidly grew into a dominant force in both religious broadcasting and public policy. Through his daily radio program—syndicated on over 4,000 stations across 160 countries—Dobson reached millions of listeners worldwide. His bestselling books, including The New Dare to Discipline and When God Doesn’t Make Sense, became foundational texts for Christian households, churches, and educators seeking guidance on faith-based parenting and moral instruction.
A steadfast defender of what he viewed as biblical principles, Dobson was unflinching in his criticism of cultural trends that, in his view, eroded the moral fabric of society. He frequently warned against the rise of pornography, gambling, and secularism, while championing abstinence education and opposing abortion. His passionate defense of religious liberty made him a central figure in America’s ongoing cultural and political debates, particularly as the evangelical movement grew in political influence.
In 2010, after more than three decades at the helm of Focus on the Family, Dobson stepped down to launch a new venture—the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute (JDFI). Through this organization, he continued to advance his mission by engaging in public policy initiatives and expanding his reach through digital media platforms.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dobson advised five U.S. presidents and served as a key member of Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board, where he helped solidify one of the most enduring alliances between conservative Christians and the Republican Party. His ability to merge faith-based advocacy with political strategy cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern Christian conservatism.
“Dr. Dobson’s influence on American faith and family life cannot be overstated,” the JDFI said in a statement. “His passing marks the close of a remarkable chapter in American Christian history.”
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley, their two children, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. For many within the evangelical community, Dobson’s death marks not only the loss of a spiritual leader but also the end of an era defined by his unwavering dedication to faith, family, and the moral foundations he believed sustained the nation.
Our prayers are with the family of Dr. James Dobson, who went home to be with his Savior today after a brief illness. Dr. Dobson was a staunch defender of the family and stood for morality and Biblical values as much as any person in our country’s history. For nearly five… pic.twitter.com/I8QuP8Y1EQ
— Franklin Graham (@Franklin_Graham) August 21, 2025