The Brazilian Supreme Court (STF) and the judiciary are currently facing a significant crisis in public image and confidence, as highlighted by a new Datafolha survey. This report indicates that the level of distrust in these institutions has reached record highs, fueled by a combination of controversial judicial decisions and ethical concerns regarding the STF, including the maintenance of financial privileges known as "penduricalhos".

The survey found that 43% of Brazilians expressed distrust in the STF, the highest percentage recorded since the survey series began in 2012. This is a notable increase from 38% in December 2024, reflecting a decline in the number of people who express strong trust in the court, which decreased from 24% to just 16%. Significant historical comparisons show that the lowest point of confidence was in June 2018 when only 14% trusted the STF strongly; however, trust levels that year were slightly more favorable regarding those who claimed to have some level of trust compared to current figures showing alarming levels of outright distrust.

This situation presents important implications for the future of Brazil's judiciary system. There are growing worries that such declines in public confidence could affect the judiciary's independence and effectiveness. Stakeholders and institutions within Brazil may need to address these concerns urgently to restore public faith and ensure the judicial branch can operate impartially and credibly for the citizenry.