Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has come under scrutiny after a ProPublica report revealed that he accepted luxury trips from Republican megadonor Harlan Crow without reporting them on financial disclosure forms. The unreported vacations, which have been occurring for more than two decades, included stays at Crow's private resort in the Adirondacks and travel via yacht and private jet.
Kathy Arberg, the Supreme Court spokeswoman acknowledged an email from the Associated Press seeking comment but did not provide any additional information. Last month, federal judiciary requirements were updated to include stricter disclosure guidelines for all judges including high court justices; however overnight stays at personal vacation homes owned by friends remain exempt from these disclosures.
The revelation of these lavish trips stands in stark contrast to what Thomas has previously stated about his preferred methods of travel. In response to allegations regarding undisclosed luxury travels paid for by Harlan Crow, Justice Clarence Thomas defended himself by revealing that he was advised during that time not to report it.
As per recent changes made in disclosure guidelines pertaining personal hospitality reporting rules, Justice Thomas is determined now more than ever before adhere strictly those moving forward