Recent controversies surrounding Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas have reignited discussions about perceived threats to American democracy. While some media outlets focus on Republican actions, polling data reveals a different perspective, with many Americans expressing concern over actions taken by Democrats.
Legal scholar and former Federal Election Commission Commissioner Brad Smith highlights this disconnect, noting that several polls indicate a significant portion of Americans view Democrats as a greater threat to democracy than Republicans. This contrasts sharply with the prevailing narrative in much of the media.
Smith cites examples such as a Marist poll from November 2021 and a Rasmussen poll from December 2021, both showing Democrats perceived as a larger threat. A Fox News poll from June 2022 also found that more registered voters believed Republicans would do a better job protecting democracy. Smith points to several incidents, including the push to expand the Supreme Court, the contentious confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and reactions to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, as potential factors contributing to this perception.
He also recalls incidents like the protests at the Wisconsin and Texas state Capitols in 2011 and 2013, respectively, as examples of actions that some may view as undemocratic. While acknowledging Republican criticisms after the January 6th Capitol riot, Smith suggests that Democratic questioning of electoral vote counts in past presidential elections might contribute to public skepticism.
Smith argues that the root of the issue may lie in a perception among some Americans that Democrats are fundamentally opposed to traditional American values, citing attempts to rename schools named after Founding Fathers and a perceived lack of interest in the Constitution. He emphasizes the importance of honest self-reflection by both parties to address the problems facing the American political system.
