Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham plans to block a Supreme Court ethics bill being pushed by Senate Democrats on the Senate floor. The bill, called the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency Act, aims to address apparent ethical lapses by Supreme Court justices, such as undisclosed lavish travel reported by Justice Clarence Thomas. The bill would require the court to adopt a code of conduct, allow public submission of ethics complaints, and establish new rules for gift and travel disclosure. It would also mandate that justices explain any decisions to recuse from cases.
Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin had hoped to pass the bill through unanimous consent, but Graham’s objection means the bill won’t be able to move forward. Although it may still come up for a vote under the normal process, the chances of it advancing are slim, as Democrats lack the necessary 60 votes to break a filibuster on the Senate floor. The bill was initially advanced by the Democratic-led Judiciary Committee on a party-line vote almost a year ago.
The need for ethics reform within the Supreme Court has been highlighted by various incidents, including Thomas’ trips with a billionaire friend and other justices’ undisclosed lavish travel. ProPublica’s reporting on the justices’ travel expenses last year raised questions about the court’s ethics. The Democratic-sponsored bill aims to address these concerns by establishing a clear code of conduct, allowing for public oversight, and ensuring transparency in decision-making and recusals.
One specific incident that drew attention was Justice Samuel Alito’s refusal to recuse himself from cases related to the Capitol riot, despite displaying an upside-down American flag outside his home in the aftermath of the event. The bill seeks to hold justices accountable for such decisions and improve public confidence in the ethical standards of the Supreme Court. However, with no Republican support and Graham’s objection, the bill’s fate remains uncertain.
Despite doubts over the bill’s passage, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is said to be considering alternative approaches to bring the legislation to a vote. The Democrats are determined to push for ethics reform within the Supreme Court, given the recent controversies and lapses in ethical conduct by some justices. The bill’s provisions, such as requiring justices to explain recusals and opening up ethics complaints to public scrutiny, are seen as crucial steps towards ensuring accountability and transparency within the judiciary.
