The Supreme Court has recently been the subject of ethical debates due to some justices, including Justice Clarence Thomas, receiving undisclosed travel and gifts from conservative benefactors. As a result, a range of voices, from Congress members to legal pundits, are advocating for the institution of a judicial code of ethics for the Supreme Court. While Justice Samuel Alito seems to hold the view that the Supreme Court is exempt from such regulations, others within the court have voiced their support for the idea.
Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Elena Kagan have previously expressed their endorsement of a Supreme Court ethics code. Kavanaugh has voiced his hope for concrete actions while Kagan believes that such a code would be beneficial for the court. Details and insights on their views can be found in articles from Above the Law.
Adding to this lineup is Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who recently joined her fellow justices in advocating for a Supreme Court code of ethics. Speaking at the University Minnesota Law School, Barrett elaborated on why she supports the implementation of this code. As reported by the New York Times, she emphasized how this would help the court communicate its activities to the public more clearly.
Despite expressing that all nine justices strive to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, Barrett did not provide any timeline or specifics about what this ethics code might entail. It remains to be seen which justice will next voice their support for a Supreme Court ethics code, and how many justices will need to acknowledge its necessity before concrete action is taken.
For an in-depth look at Barrett’s comments, refer to the New York Times piece covering her recent speaking engagement. More information about the Supreme Court’s ongoing ethical debates can also be found in an article from Above the Law.