(LibertySociety.com) – After the results of an investigation by ProPublica were released on April 6th, 2023 regarding trips that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas took with his friend of more than 25 years, Harlan Crow, Justice Thomas responded in defense of himself. In his statement, Justice Thomas explained the actions he took to make sure he followed reporting guidelines, stating that the advice he was given by members of the judiciary, as well as fellow Justices regarding “personal hospitality from close personal friends,” did not need to be reported.
Justice Thomas also said that he has “always sought to comply with the disclosure guidelines,” adding that he will also follow the new guidelines that were recently established by the Judicial Conference of the United States. He also elaborated on the trips he took with Mr. Crow, noting that they were family vacations over the span of their long friendship. Crow is a megadonor for the GOP, but the firm he represents has never had a case heard in the Supreme Court. Mr. Crow also released a statement, reiterating Justice Thomas’ sentiments regarding their long-time friendship.
Mr. Crow also sought to address concerns about guests who were invited on the trips, making it clear that neither he nor any of his guests have ever tried to influence Justice Thomas, as someone who sought to do such a thing would not be welcomed as a guest. He also stated that no one has ever inquired about any of the cases before the Supreme Court and that Justice Thomas has never offered up any type of information either.
Congressional Democrats have already expressed outrage about the ProPublica investigation, with Senator Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, vowing to take action in the Senate Judiciary Committee, which he chairs. Democrat Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., claimed that she may introduce an impeachment article against Justice Thomas if no one else will. Rep. Ocasio-Cortez has previously called for his impeachment over his wife, Jenni Thomas’ personal political beliefs and actions.
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