New survey experiments challenge the idea that courts are evaluated nonpartisely. People perceive state supreme courts as more impartial when decisions align with their party's policy goals, and less so otherwise. This perception shift negatively affects views of court legitimacy.

Data & Methods:

• Original Study: Designed survey experiments validated by existing observational data
• Research Approach: Explores the impact of partisan identity on judicial perceptions

Key Findings:

• Partisan alignment strengthens belief in court impartiality
• Court decisions contrary to one's party preferences undermine legitimacy trust

Why It Matters:

These findings suggest that public views of courts are not immune to political partisanship. This erosion in perceived impartiality can lead citizens to advocate for reduced judicial independence.