Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s latest financial disclosure reports revealed that she received concert tickets from Beyoncé valued at $3,711.84. It is uncertain which show Jackson attended, but Beyoncé performed a sold-out concert in Washington, D.C., in August 2023. Vice President Kamala Harris also received tickets from Beyoncé, citing their value at $3,312. Jackson also disclosed receiving two gifts of art worth a combined $12,500 for her judicial chambers. Additionally, she received a book advance of $893,750 from Penguin Random House for her memoir “Lovely One”, set to be published in September.
Justice Clarence Thomas disclosed receiving two photo albums valued at $2,000 from Terrence Giroux, the leader of the nonprofit Horatio Alger Association, and his wife. He also amended his 2019 disclosure report to include two trips he took as a guest of Harlan Crow, a Republican megadonor. The trips, which were originally omitted, included stays at a hotel in Bali, Indonesia, and a private club in Monte Rio, California. Justice Brett Kavanaugh reported $340,000 in book royalty income from Javelin Group and Regnery Publishing for his upcoming legal memoir. Kavanaugh faced a contentious confirmation process after being accused of sexual assault while in high school.
Justice Neil Gorsuch disclosed $250,000 in royalty income from HarperCollins Publishers for his book “Over Ruled”, scheduled for release in August. Jackson, Kavanaugh, and Gorsuch were among the justices who reported substantial income from books. Jackson is the only justice on the court appointed by President Joe Biden, while Thomas, Kavanaugh, and Gorsuch were appointed by previous presidents. The disclosures provide insight into the financial activities of the highest court in the nation, showcasing the various sources of income and gifts received by the justices.
The disclosure reports shed light on the personal interests and financial relationships of the Supreme Court justices. Gift-giving, book royalties, and other forms of income are common aspects of a justice’s financial portfolio. The reports also highlight potential conflicts of interest or ethical concerns, such as gifts from political donors or high-profile celebrities. The amendments made by Justice Thomas regarding his trips with Harlan Crow indicate a commitment to transparency and accountability in reporting financial information. Overall, the reports offer a comprehensive view of the justices’ financial interests and activities in a particular year.
The disclosure of concert tickets from Beyoncé by Justice Jackson and Vice President Harris adds a touch of celebrity glamour to the otherwise serious and solemn nature of the Supreme Court. The inclusion of gifts of art and book advances further showcases the diverse interests and pursuits of the justices outside of their judicial duties. The reports serve as a reminder that the justices are not only legal experts but also individuals with personal and professional interests that may intersect with their roles on the court. The financial disclosures provide a window into the lives of the justices and contribute to a more complete understanding of the individuals who serve on the nation’s highest court.
