James Dobson, the influential and polarizing founder of Focus on the Family, died on August 21, 2025, at the age of 89. His passing was announced by the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, which did not disclose a cause of death, but took the opportunity to highlight Dobson’s immense impact on American evangelicalism and public life. The news has prompted an outpouring of both tributes and pointed criticism, reflecting the complex legacy Dobson leaves behind after decades at the center of cultural and political debates.
Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson’s early life and education set him on a path toward public ministry. After earning his undergraduate degree at Point Loma Nazarene University in Southern California, he completed a doctorate in psychology from the University of Southern California in 1967. Dobson’s first book, “Dare to Discipline,” published in 1970, made the case for corporal punishment and strict child-rearing techniques—a theme that would echo through his career and spark considerable controversy. According to Reuters, Dobson’s advocacy for such methods would become a defining, and divisive, aspect of his public persona.
In 1977, Dobson founded Focus on the Family, a faith-based organization that would grow into one of the largest of its kind in the world. The group began in Southern California but moved to Colorado Springs in 1991, a move that helped transform the city into what many dubbed the “Evangelical Vatican.” The influx of evangelical organizations following Dobson’s relocation cemented Colorado Springs’ reputation as a national hub for conservative Christian activism. As reported by USA Today, Focus on the Family’s reach was broad, with its radio broadcasts at their peak heard on more than 4,000 radio stations across North America. The program was honored with induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2008.
Dobson’s folksy style and direct approach made him a beloved figure in much of the American heartland, even as critics accused him of promoting intolerance. His organization’s programming and publications, aimed at churches, homeschoolers, and families, resonated across evangelical denominations and nondenominational conservative Protestantism. Despite his personal affiliation with the Church of the Nazarene, Dobson’s appeal cut a wide swath through the conservative religious landscape.
But Dobson’s influence extended far beyond family counseling. As The Associated Press noted, his leadership at Focus on the Family and his daily radio broadcasts provided a platform to weigh in on legislation and public policy. He became a key figure in the “religious right,” joining the ranks of Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson in efforts to bring conservative Christian ideals into the political mainstream. Dobson’s advocacy was often focused on opposing abortion rights and gay marriage, which he viewed as threats to the traditional family and, by extension, to the fabric of society.
Dobson’s political influence was formidable. He served as an adviser to five U.S. presidents, from Ronald Reagan to Donald Trump, and participated in special advisory groups for these administrations. According to USA Today, Dobson was an early supporter of Donald Trump in July 2016, even as many evangelicals initially favored other candidates. He also served on an evangelical advisory board for Trump, supporting him in all three of his presidential campaigns. Dobson’s support for Trump was closely linked to the Supreme Court appointments that led to the 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade, a decision Dobson celebrated. In a ministry broadcast, he stated, “Whether you like Donald Trump or not, whether you supported or voted for him or not, if you are supportive of this Dobbs decision that struck down Roe v Wade, you have to mention in the same breath the man who made it possible.”
Dobson’s access to political power sometimes generated controversy. In 2005, he learned of the religious views of President George W. Bush’s Supreme Court nominee, Harriet E. Miers, through a private conversation with Karl Rove. The revelation, reported by USA Today, raised concerns about the religious right’s influence over judicial nominations and contributed to the collapse of Miers’ nomination.
Beyond Focus on the Family, Dobson helped launch and lead several other influential organizations, including the Family Research Council and the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal advocacy group that has argued high-profile cases before the Supreme Court. He also had ties to the Council for National Policy, a secretive network connecting religious and conservative political leaders. Kristen Waggoner, CEO and president of Alliance Defending Freedom, said in a statement, “The world has lost a mighty voice for truth and an incredibly influential servant of Christ today. Dobson’s bold leadership and commitment to the Gospel shaped the lives of so many and will continue to do so many years after his passing.”
Dobson’s legacy is not without controversy. He was a staunch advocate for conversion therapy, a widely discredited and harmful practice aimed at forcibly changing the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ youth. He also encouraged corporal punishment of children, views that have been heavily criticized by mental health professionals and LGBTQ advocates. Critics argue that Dobson’s teachings have contributed to trauma and suffering for many, particularly those within the LGBTQ community. As reported by Reuters, New York Magazine writer Sarah Jones wrote on social media, “He committed his entire life to violence and cruelty and now he’s gone. I’ve been waiting to write his epitaph since I was a child.” Pastor Zach Lambert echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s genuinely hard to quantify the pain he and his organization are responsible for. I’ve walked with hundreds and hundreds of people who experienced severe trauma (spiritual, emotional, physical, etc.) because of his teachings.”
Yet, Dobson’s supporters remember him as a mentor, counselor, and a steady voice of faith in turbulent times. Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, said, “Dr. Dobson was a pioneer—a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family and culture. His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values.” Focus on the Family president Jim Daly added, “He heard many stories of family trauma through the years, and he grieved for each one. He never lost his heart for those who weep. Now, it is our turn to weep. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a friend to millions of listeners and readers around the world.”
Dobson remained active in ministry until the very end, hosting his radio program as recently as August 15, 2025, before his death was announced by his family institute. His passing has left a void in the evangelical landscape, with prominent figures like former Vice President Mike Pence noting, “Dr. Dobson leaves behind a legacy of defending our Christian faith, family and freedom that is unparalleled and will inspire generations.”
James Dobson’s life and work shaped American evangelicalism and the broader culture wars for nearly half a century. His legacy, marked by both deep devotion and sharp division, will continue to be debated for years to come.