Former Top Trump Adviser Passes Away Suddenly
Dr. James Dobson, a towering figure in American evangelicalism whose tireless advocacy for faith, family, and traditional values shaped U.S. culture and politics for more than half a century, died Thursday morning at the age of 89.
Born in 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dobson emerged as one of the most recognizable voices of his generation. A trained clinical psychologist turned national broadcaster and best-selling author, his mission was clear: keeping faith, marriage, and child-rearing at the heart of American life.
“Dr. Dobson was a pioneer — a man of deep conviction whose voice shaped the way generations view faith, family, and culture,” said Gary Bauer, senior vice president of public policy at the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute (JDFI). “His bold leadership, integrity, and compassion helped equip countless families to thrive in a world of shifting values. He was a mentor, a counselor, and a steady voice of truth in turbulent times.”
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
Dobson first rose to prominence in the 1970s when he founded Focus on the Family (FOTF) in California. The ministry exploded in reach and influence, becoming a hub for evangelical engagement on issues of family life and morality. By the 1980s and 1990s, his daily radio broadcasts were carried on more than 4,000 stations across North America, translated into 27 languages, and distributed to 160 countries — making his program one of the most widely heard Christian broadcasts worldwide.
In 1991, FOTF moved its headquarters to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where it remains today. Under Dobson’s leadership, the ministry became a central voice for religious liberty, pro-life advocacy, marriage, and parenting rooted in biblical truth.
Beyond the airwaves, Dobson authored more than 70 books, including the bestselling The New Dare to Discipline and When God Doesn’t Make Sense. These works sold millions of copies and remain staples for Christian families and churches. His message frequently warned against cultural trends he believed eroded the family — from pornography and gambling to the decline of church attendance. He also championed abstinence education, efforts to reduce teen pregnancy, and the defense of life from conception.
After leaving FOTF in 2010, Dobson launched the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, continuing his mission through digital outreach, public policy work, and his trademark daily broadcasts. His influence extended far beyond the church pew. Dobson advised five U.S. presidents — George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and President Donald J. Trump among them — connecting conservative Christian communities to the White House and shaping policy debates around religious freedom and morality.
President Trump included Dobson on his Evangelical Executive Advisory Board during his first term and regularly credited Dobson’s leadership for helping energize the faith community behind policies defending life, family, and liberty.
Dobson’s influence touched generations. Millions of listeners credit him with strengthening marriages, guiding parents, and offering biblical hope in an increasingly secular culture.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley, two children, daughter-in-law Laura, and two grandchildren.
In a statement, the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute called his passing “the close of a remarkable chapter in American Christian life,” adding that his legacy “will continue to ripple through churches, families, and communities for decades to come.”