A recent discussion among legal experts highlights growing alarm within the U.S.legal community regarding President Donald Trump’s second administration and its impact on the rule of law.

Attorneys Brian Kabateck and Shant Karnikian analyzed a survey finding that 94% of judges and lawyers believe the current Trump administration represents a greater threat to legal institutions than his first term.The experts described the result as striking and indicative of a worsening relationship between the executive branch and the judiciary.

According to Karnikian, the survey reflects a significant erosion of trust in American institutions, suggesting that tensions between the White House and the federal court system have intensified since Trump returned to office.

He pointed to ongoing conflicts in which Trump has publicly criticized judges who have ruled against his policies, including Supreme Court justices involved in blocking parts of his tariff agenda.The discussion also referenced legal disputes involving Trump’s attempts to reshape or influence judicial processes.

One example cited was a settlement related to a lawsuit against the IRS concerning the release of his tax returns, which resulted in the creation of a fund that has drawn scrutiny and remains under litigation due to concerns it could benefit political allies.

Kabateck added that the Supreme Court’s use of the so-called “shadow docket” has further complicated perceptions of transparency in judicial decision-making.

He argued that this practice allows significant rulings to occur without full public explanation, raising concerns among legal professionals about accountability and precedent.

Overall, the experts portrayed a legal landscape marked by heightened institutional strain, increased polarization, and ongoing disputes between the executive branch and the judiciary, reflecting what they see as a deterioration in respect for the rule of law compared to Trump’s first administration.