James Dobson, Founder of Focus on the Family and Conservative Powerhouse, Dies at 89

James Dobson, the influential evangelical leader and founder of Focus on the Family, has died at the age of 89. Known for shaping generations of conservative Christian thought, Dobson passed away on Thursday, according to the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.

Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson began his public life as a child psychologist and radio counselor before launching Focus on the Family in 1977. His impact extended far beyond religious broadcasting—Dobson emerged as a key figure in the rise of the Christian right in American politics, joining the ranks of Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson during the 1980s cultural shift.

At its height, Focus on the Family employed more than 1,000 people and reached tens of millions through books, radio, and political campaigns. Dobson’s work spanned over five decades, with more than 70 books published in 27 languages and a syndicated radio show that once aired on 4,000 stations globally.

What Did James Dobson Achieve Through Focus on the Family?

James Dobson’s creation, Focus on the Family, was more than just a ministry. It became a nationwide movement promoting Christian family values, conservative politics, and evangelical beliefs. Dobson’s early radio broadcasts focused on parenting, marriage, and faith-based family life, resonating with millions of American households.

His 1970 book, Dare to Discipline, became a cultural cornerstone, advocating for corporal punishment in child-rearing and challenging progressive parenting norms of the time. While the book faced criticism for its promotion of spanking, it also inspired many who found comfort in Dobson’s structured approach to parenting.

Beyond books and broadcasts, Dobson’s influence shaped national policy. He advised five U.S. presidents, including Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. In 1985, Dobson interviewed President Reagan in the White House—an early signal of his growing political clout. He later played an advisory role in Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, praising the appointment of conservative justices to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Why Was James Dobson Considered a Conservative Icon?

Dobson’s position within the conservative evangelical movement was cemented not just by his influence on families, but by his unflinching stance on polarizing social issues. He was a vocal opponent of abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, leading political efforts to promote traditional marriage and Christian morality in public life.

Under his leadership, Focus on the Family spent millions on political ads and lobbying. The organization helped create a national network of Family Policy Councils in nearly 40 states, advocating for anti-abortion laws, parental rights, and religious liberty.

Tony Perkins, head of the Family Research Council—a group Dobson also founded—once described him as belonging on the “Mount Rushmore” of Christian conservatism. Ralph Reed, another long-time ally, said Dobson’s voice was ever-present in the lives of conservative Christians across rural America.

Dobson’s Legacy in Family and Politics

After stepping down from Focus on the Family in 2010, Dobson launched the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute and continued broadcasting through his radio show Family Talk. Even in his later years, he remained committed to faith-based counseling and speaking out on cultural issues. According to the institute, Family Talk reached over half a million weekly listeners.

One of Dobson’s most controversial beliefs involved the discredited practice of conversion therapy. He promoted the idea that individuals could change their sexual orientation through faith and counseling—an assertion widely criticized by medical and psychological associations. Despite pushback, Dobson continued to host guests who supported these views on his broadcasts as recently as 2021.

Though divisive, Dobson’s impact on American culture is undeniable. He helped shape the rise of the Christian right, built enduring institutions, and guided millions of families through faith-based principles.

How Focus on the Family Changed Evangelical America

Relocating Focus on the Family to Colorado Springs in the 1990s turned the city into a hub for evangelical activism—often nicknamed the “Vatican of the West.” The ministry’s reach extended far beyond broadcasting, influencing legislation, public opinion, and the direction of the Republican Party.

Dobson considered running for president in 2000, reflecting just how powerful his following had become. Though he never pursued elected office, his political footprint was deeply embedded in the policies and people he supported.

Today, Focus on the Family continues to operate, but its founder’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in American religious and political life.

James Dobson is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Dobson, their two children, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.

His legacy, though polarizing, leaves behind a permanent imprint on the American evangelical landscape and its intersection with politics.

For your information:

What was James Dobson best known for?
James Dobson was best known as the founder of Focus on the Family and for his influence on conservative Christian values and U.S. politics.

How did Focus on the Family influence politics?
Focus on the Family used media, advocacy, and political campaigns to promote conservative positions on abortion, family values, and religious freedom, shaping policy through lobbying and public engagement.

Did James Dobson support conversion therapy?
Yes, James Dobson promoted conversion therapy, a widely discredited practice, arguing that people could change their sexual orientation through counseling and religious faith.

Who did James Dobson advise in politics?
He advised five U.S. presidents, including Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump, using his platform to support conservative judicial appointments and social policy.

Where was Focus on the Family based?
Focus on the Family is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and was instrumental in establishing the city as a center for evangelical activism.