Sen. Lindsey Graham, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, is blocking Senate Democrats’ efforts to pass a Supreme Court ethics bill. The bill, the Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Trasnparency Act, was advanced by the Democratic-led Judiciary Committee last July with a party-line vote. However, Graham’s objection means the bill will not move forward because any senator can block a unanimous consent request.
The bill aims to address a myriad of ethical lapses by Supreme Court justices, including issues with disclosing gifts and travel. It would require the court to adopt and publish a code of conduct within 180 days, allow the public to submit ethics complaints, and establish new rules for recusals. The legislation also mandates that justices provide public explanations for recusals from cases.
Justice Clarence Thomas recently came under scrutiny for undeclared trips with billionaire friends, raising questions about ethics within the court. In response, Senate Democrats have pushed for this legislation to improve transparency and accountability within the Supreme Court.
While the bill lacks Republican support, Democrats are pushing for a vote to ensure both parties are on the record. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is considering bringing the bill up for a vote through the normal process, despite doubts about its passage. The Supreme Court did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter.
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