Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is claiming that he did not understand the law when it came to disclosing lavish trips and vacations he accepted from a billionaire and GOP megadonor. Thomas explained that he thought the trips were just “personal hospitality” and didn’t need to be reported.
“I mean, come on, who wouldn’t want to go on a private plane and luxury yacht with their dearest friends?” Thomas said. “I didn’t think I had to report it. I thought it was just a friendly gesture from a good pal.”
Thomas went on to explain that he was not familiar with the legal requirements for reporting gifts and other information, and had relied on advice from “colleagues and others in the judiciary” who had told him that personal hospitality from close personal friends who did not have business before the court was not reportable.
“I guess I should have paid more attention in law school,” Thomas admitted. “But I was too busy having fun on these lavish trips.”
The report that detailed Thomas’ vacations with Harlan Crow, a Texas real estate magnate and Republican donor, had caused controversy and reignited calls for Supreme Court justices to adhere to a code of conduct that currently only applies to lower federal judges.
In response to the outcry, Thomas said he would comply with new guidelines clarifying the type of gifts justices must disclose publicly, but added that he hoped the rules wouldn’t be too strict.
“I don’t want to have to report every little thing I do with my friends,” Thomas said. “I mean, where does it end? Do I have to report it if we just go out for coffee or a movie?”
Despite his claims of ignorance, many are skeptical of Thomas’ explanation. Legal experts point out that judges are expected to have a high level of understanding of the law and ethical standards, and argue that Thomas should have known better.
“He’s a Supreme Court justice, for crying out loud,” said one commentator. “He should be held to a higher standard than this
