Descriptive Representation, Judicial Nominations, and Perceptions of Presidential Accomplishment

Abstract

ABSTRACT Some narratives claim that American presidents can increase their approval ratings by nominating members of underrepresented groups to positions within the judiciary. Indeed, public opinion polls frequently show that members of the public think presidents should consider individuals from underrepresented groups when making judicial appointments. Despite the prevalence of these narratives, little research investigates how the descriptive characteristics of judicial appointments influence public evaluations of the president. We find that the public views presidents more favourably when they are more inclusive of women and minorities in their judicial appointments, and this effect is particularly strong for Democrats. The results demonstrate that presidents can increase public support by appointing individuals from underrepresented groups. This research has implications for representation and judicial selection in the United States.