The Dartmouth-based Polarization Research Lab has been conducting surveys to measure partisan polarization and Americans' commitment to constitutional norms. The surveys indicate clear signs of polarization in American society, with one exception: respondents are divided on allowing their own party's presidents to issue executive orders to bypass Congress. This suggests that polarization remains a concern for American democracy.

The lab's approach to measuring polarization focuses on "affect," measuring differences in people's feelings toward their own party and the opposing party. The surveys show that affective polarization has increased substantially in the United States since the 1970s, primarily due to negative feelings toward the opposing party.

Demographic variations in affective polarization are generally modest, except for age, where polarization tends to increase with older age groups. Differences in affective polarization are more significant among those who strongly identify with a political party or hold extreme political beliefs.

The surveys also explore the relationship between affective polarization and support for constitutional norms. While there is a correlation between higher polarization and a willingness to violate norms, it is not straightforward. For example, support for violating norms varies among those who strongly agree, agree, or disagree. Higher levels of polarization do not necessarily lead to a breakdown in support for liberal norms.

However, there is concern about the use of executive orders to bypass Congress. A significant number of respondents from both parties support this idea, which could potentially damage the liberal polity. Democrats show more support for executive orders, possibly influenced by their current control of the White House. Republicans are more likely to prioritize party loyalty over election law in election disputes.

The lure of strong presidential power and the alignment between partisan polarization and the pursuit of power can open the door to populist strongmen and pose a threat to liberal values. Therefore, partisan polarization should be taken seriously, despite Americans' current support for some constitutional norms.

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