The US Supreme Court's Shift from Neutral Umpire to Political Player in the Post-Trump Era: Unintended Consequences for Reproductive Rights, Affirmative Action, and Marriage Equality

Abstract

This research examines the evolution of the US Supreme Court’s role in American politics and culture. The study hypothesizes that the Court's structure and parameters have undergone significant changes due to various historical precedents, including landmark court cases and partisan and ideological nomination and confirmation processes. This has raised questions about the Court's integrity and legitimacy. The study employs a mixed-method approach using qualitative content and thematic analysis of primary sources, including a selection of landmark cases such as Helvering v. Davis, United States v. Butler, Wickard v. Filburn, and Whitman v. American Trucking Association, Inc, as well as a secondary source, Gallup poll data covering public perceptions of the Court between 2002 and 2022. The study finds that the Court's decisions have had significant implications for public perceptions of the institution, particularly in controversial cases such as Grutter v. Bollinger, which codified Affirmative Action into American law. The findings suggest that while the Court's evolving role has increased public scrutiny, it has also demonstrated the importance of ensuring the Court remains independent, impartial, and transparent in its decision-making processes. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the changing emotions and perceptions of the US Supreme Court among the American public.