PILLAR 4

Department of Justice — Equal Justice Under Law

• The Grievance: Public confidence declines when citizens believe enforcement decisions are influenced by political power or status.
• The Demand: The Department of Justice must publish clear policies governing impartial enforcement, prosecutorial independence, and ethics review procedures.

Why It Is Important to American Nationals and Citizens

Equal justice under the law is the cornerstone of a stable society. When the justice system is perceived as being weaponized against political opponents or protective of powerful interests, the rule of law is undermined. Restoring public trust in the DOJ requires clear, transparent policies that ensure prosecutorial decisions are based solely on the law and the facts.

Key Empirical Data & Context:

Public perception of the Department of Justice has become increasingly polarized. Following changes in presidential administrations, public trust in the executive branch and federal law enforcement agencies can shift dramatically along partisan lines.

This extreme volatility indicates that the federal justice system is increasingly viewed as an instrument of political influence, which can lead to a broader breakdown in civic compliance and public order.

Republicans’ Trust in Executive Branch (DOJ Oversight):

• 2024: 9%
• 2025: 92% (Net Change: +83 points)

Democrats’ Trust in Executive Branch (DOJ Oversight):

• 2024: 82%
• 2025: 4% (Net Change: -78 points)

Independents’ Trust in Executive Branch (DOJ Oversight):

• 2024: 23%
• 2025: 25% (Net Change: +2 points)

Overall Trust in Federal Government:

• 2024: 23%
• 2025: 33% (Net Change: +10 points)