The ruling was praised by Republican leaders, including former President Donald Trump, who argued that it will enable the US to "compete with the rest of the world." Meanwhile, former President Barack Obama strongly spoke out against the decision, arguing that affirmative action policies are essential to ensuring that all students, regardless of race or ethnicity, have the opportunity to succeed.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama also expressed her disappointment with the ruling, saying that it is a reminder that "we've got to do the work not just to enact policies that reflect our values of equity and fairness, but to truly make those values real in all of our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods."