– Clarence Thomas absent from oral arguments without explanation
– John Roberts says Thomas will take part in cases via transcripts and briefs
– Thomas, 75, key member of influential conservative bloc in Supreme Court
Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, the oldest member of the court and a key conservative figure, was absent from oral arguments on Monday without explanation. Chief Justice John Roberts announced that Thomas would participate in the day’s cases through transcripts and briefs. Thomas, who is known for his influential role in the court’s conservative bloc, did not participate remotely in the arguments.
Thomas, who was hospitalized with an infection in 2022 after experiencing flu-like symptoms, has been long-tenured on the court since his nomination by President George H.W. Bush in 1991. With recent conservative appointments to the court, his influence has continued to grow as the eldest member of the conservative bloc. Last year, it was reported that Thomas had taken undisclosed luxury vacations financed by a billionaire real estate developer, but Thomas claimed he was advised that reporting the hospitality was unnecessary.
The Supreme Court has not provided any explanation for Thomas’s absence from oral arguments, leading to speculation about his health or other reasons for not being present. Despite his absence, Thomas’s impact and influence on the court remain significant, particularly within the conservative wing. Additional information or comments from the court regarding Thomas’s absence have not been disclosed at this time.