Recent findings from the Marquette Law School Poll suggest a nuanced and polarized public perception of the U.S. Supreme Court. The poll, conducted from July 22-29, reveals that 47% of respondents approve of the Court’s performance, while 53% disapprove, reflecting a deeply divided public opinion in a politically charged environment.
Political affiliation significantly influences views on the Court. Among Republicans, approval stands at 74%, while only 35% of independents and a mere 22% of Democrats share this sentiment. Ideological leanings further widen the divide, with 80% of very conservative respondents approving of the Court, compared to just 5% of very liberal adults.
The Court’s perceived alignment with former President Trump’s administration is another contentious issue. While 55% of all adults believe the Court sides with Trump almost always or most of the time, this perspective diverges dramatically across political lines. Sixty-three percent of Republicans claim the Court rarely supports Trump, contrasting with 77% of Democrats who feel the opposite. Independents are nearly split, with half perceiving the Court as frequently backing Trump.
Despite overall low approval ratings, the poll indicates bipartisan support for certain rulings. Majorities in both parties favor decisions limiting police access to cell phone data, regulating gun possession among drug users, and preventing the president from removing Federal Reserve Board members. However, partisan gaps widen significantly when rulings involve direct challenges to Trump administration policies, such as asylum restrictions and E. Jean Carroll’s verdict appeal.
While agreement with specific rulings does influence overall approval, its impact pales compared to the roles of partisanship and ideology. The poll underscores the continuing influence of political divides on public opinion about the Court, as well as the complex interplay between decision-specific reactions and broader ideological and party alignments.
The data, gathered over the course of a tumultuous Supreme Court term, paints a picture of a judiciary navigating not only legal challenges but also the shifting sands of public opinion and political allegiances.