Articles by David E. Smith
Illinois Expands Gambling, Then Treats the Disorder
By David E. Smith   |   05.11.26
More than 1 in 3 boys have gambled. Over half of adults have too. This isn’t “harmless fun”—it’s addictive. The house always wins; the player loses. Illinois reaps revenue from those losses—then asks taxpayers to fund programs to address the “gambling disorder” it helped create.
Registration is Now Open for IFI’s Annual Banquet!
By David E. Smith   |   05.07.26
Registration is NOW OPEN for the annual IFI Banquet featuring nationally renowned pro-life speaker Seth Gruber! Join conservatives from across Illinois for an inspiring evening focused on faith, family, freedom, and defending preborn life. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today.
“Highest Property Taxes in the Country”: Illinois Lawmakers Push for Relief
By David E. Smith   |   05.06.26
Illinois families are drowning in rising costs—gasoline, food, insurance, utilities. And now Springfield risks driving property taxes even higher? Enough is enough. Stop squeezing families to feed wasteful and unaccountable government.
Join Us for a Time of Prayer in Springfield
By David E. Smith   |   05.01.26
Our state doesn’t need more politics—it needs prayer. Stand with believers across Illinois on May 20 to intercede for our leaders, families, and future.
“The Rainbow Belongs to God”: A Message Springfield Needs to See
By David E. Smith   |   04.30.26
We’re praying God will use a simple message to turn hearts back to Him: “The Rainbow Belongs to God.” Help us keep this billboard up in Springfield this summer. Please prayerfully consider supporting this billboard campaign.
Prayer Bulletin for April 2026
By David E. Smith   |   04.27.26
This is more than political tension. We’re seeing rising hostility and violence—hatred of our fellow man. We are reaping the seeds of rebellion and unrighteous anger. The response is clear: humble ourselves, pray, repent, and seek God’s mercy. Then, and only then, cry out for revival.
VIDEOS: IFI’s 2026 Worldview Conference
By David E. Smith   |   04.23.26
Drawing on four decades of research and 30 years of worldview analysis, Dr. George Barna offers a sobering, data-driven assessment of where the church stands—and why Christians can no longer afford complacency. His message is reinforced by Dr. Mark Zumhagen and Rev. Ceasar LeFlore.
Easter Blessings
By David E. Smith   |   04.05.26
Easter calls us to reflect on our faith, even in the midst of trials. A culture of death is replacing what was once a beacon of hope, but the Resurrection reminds us that appearances can deceive. He is risen!! And that changes everything. For His glory, let's continue to boldly stand for truth, with conviction and compassion.
Good Friday
By David E. Smith   |   04.03.26
The death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith. That life can arise miraculously from darkness and death, brings us great hope. As Spring and "new life" emerge, God's promise of resurrection can be seen everywhere. This hope that Christians share is something far greater than the changing of seasons.
A Sobering Look at America’s Worldview
By David E. Smith   |   04.03.26
Dr. George Barna’s latest report confirms it: only 4% of Americans have a biblical worldview. No wonder our culture is in chaos. We must return to God’s Word—and teach it faithfully to the next generation.
George Barna Encourages Being & Raising Spiritual Champions
By David E. Smith   |   03.30.26
Dr. Barna’s research shows that young people who are grounded in essential biblical truths are far more likely to remain committed to Christ. That’s why every Christian parent, grandparent, and pastor must be intentional about giving the next generation a firm foundation in the Word of God.
Illinois Republican Lawmakers Are Now Pushing for Mandatory Kindergarten?
By David E. Smith   |   03.26.26
We are sad to report that some Illinois lawmakers want to mandate kindergarten. Parents—not politicians—should decide when a child is ready. Where does it stop? Mandatory preschool next? Please tell your State Representative to vote NO on HB 4253 if it comes up for a vote this session.
Prayer Bulletin for March 2026
By David E. Smith   |   03.25.26
The mountain of work before us is overwhelming—and the urgency never lets up. Dangerous legislation is moving in Springfield, but we are not without hope. “Be anxious for nothing…” (Phil. 4:6) The best response is clear: pray frequently, advocate faithfully, and entrust it all to the Lord.
SCOTUS Defends Parental Rights — Will Illinois Listen?
By David E. Smith   |   03.04.26
SCOTUS ruled that schools cannot secretly facilitate a child’s “gender transition” while keeping parents in the dark. Parents—not government bureaucrats—are the primary protectors of their children. Unfortunately, Illinois has moved in the opposite direction, repealing parental notification for abortion and undermining parental authority.
Marriage and Family: God’s Design for Human Flourishing
By David E. Smith   |   02.20.26
Marriage and family are God’s design — the foundation of human flourishing. When families crumble, society follows. Strong homes, faithful fathers, and biblical truth are not optional… they are essential to civilization itself.
David E. Smith
Executive Director
David  E. Smith

Dave Smith is the executive director of Illinois Family Institute (501c3) and Illinois Family Action (501c4).

Follow Dave on X: @ProFamilyIL

David has almost 35 years of experience in public policy and grass-roots activism that includes countless interviews for numerous radio, television, cable programs and newspaper articles on topics such as the sanctity of life, natural marriage, broadcast decency, sex education, marijuana, gambling, abortion, homosexuality, tax policy, drug decriminalization and pornography.

He and his wife of 31 years are blessed with eight children, many of whom they homeschool. They believe their first God-given responsibility is to disciple their children—cultivating a love for God through faithful teaching and obedient living. Research consistently affirms that parents, ideally a mother and father, are the primary influencers in a child’s life. True discipleship involves sound doctrine, love for God and others, and a life lived in faithful obedience, all with the aim of raising healthy, productive individuals who honor God and love their neighbors.

Dave has also served as a precinct committeeman and served as an elder in his local church.

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