Consider This from NPR The Push for the Supreme Court to Adopt an Ethical Code
May 4, 2023
Angus King, the Independent Senator from Maine, dives into the current ethical crisis surrounding the Supreme Court, notably regarding Justice Clarence Thomas and his ties to billionaire Harlan Crow. He discusses alarming polls showing a decline in public confidence and advocates for a bipartisan bill to establish a binding code of conduct for justices. King highlights the need for transparency and accountability, addressing the challenges of enforcing ethical standards amidst political polarization. This conversation sheds light on crucial reforms necessary for restoring trust in the judiciary.
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Justices Under Scrutiny
- Justice Clarence Thomas accepted lavish gifts from Harlan Crow, including tuition for his grandnephew.
- Other justices like Neil Gorsuch and John Roberts also face scrutiny over financial dealings.
Declining Trust
- Public trust in the Supreme Court is declining, according to a recent poll.
- Some lawmakers propose creating a code of conduct to address the issue.
Code of Conduct
- The Supreme Court should adopt a code of conduct similar to other federal judges.
- This code should focus on avoiding impropriety and the appearance of impropriety.