House Democrats are urging Roberts to investigate allegations against Thomas and Alito.

A Call for an Independent Investigative Unit for the Supreme Court

A group of House Democrats has taken a stand, urging the establishment of an independent investigative unit for the Supreme Court. In a letter addressed to Chief Justice John Roberts, the group expressed concerns about recent allegations that “pose grave threats to the legitimacy of the Court.”

Leading the charge is Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY), who is joined by a group of Democratic colleagues in the House consisting of former prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement officials. The letter highlights ethical concerns surrounding Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas and calls for the creation of an independent body to address these issues.

Upholding Ethical Standards

In the letter, Rep. Goldman emphasizes the need for the Court to provide a rationale and vision for how it will police itself. The failure to conduct a meaningful, independent investigation into the allegations against Justices Thomas and Alito raises concerns about the Court’s adherence to a code of ethics and an adequate enforcement process.

Specifically, accusations against Justice Thomas arose earlier this year when it was revealed that he had taken undisclosed trips with a billionaire GOP donor and friend, Harlan Crow. Justice Alito, on the other hand, allegedly went on an expensive trip with a different friend, Paul Singer, to an Alaskan fishing lodge in 2008. Both justices have defended these friendships and trips.

Justice Thomas has maintained that he consulted with colleagues in the judicial branch, who informed him that gifts from close personal friends did not need to be reported if the friends did not have business in front of the Supreme Court.

Addressing Recusals and Disclosures

The letter also raises concerns about recusals and disclosures, urging Chief Justice Roberts to establish a council that advises justices on future disclosures, recusal decisions, and other potential ethical issues. By doing so, the Court can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards.

“If, as you say, the Court is capable of upholding the highest ethical standards, then we hope you will accept our recommendations to establish an independent and transparent investigative body and separate ethics counsel to regain the trust and confidence of the American people,” the letter concludes.

As of now, the justices have not responded to the letter. Both Justice Alito and Justice Thomas have served on the Supreme Court for over a decade, with Justice Thomas being the longest-serving justice currently on the Court since his appointment in 1991 and Justice Alito joining in 2006.

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