Conservative Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito was captured in newly released audio disparaging ProPublica’s Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of ethical issues on the court, calling their reporting an attempt to “make something out” of any minor details they can find. The recording was made at a June 3 event by a colleague of liberal documentary filmmaker Lauren Windsor and later shared on social media. Alito criticized the media for not liking the court’s decisions and for anticipating future decisions in a negative light, attributing much of the criticism to well-funded ideological groups.
Alito specifically criticized ProPublica for their investigative reporting on him and Justice Clarence Thomas, both conservative justices on the court. The reporting revealed expensive gifts received by Alito and Thomas from billionaires, including private jet flights and lavish vacations. Alito accused ProPublica of looking for any small detail they could find and trying to turn it into a negative story. ProPublica’s “Friends of the Court” series, which won a Pulitzer Prize, highlighted the ethical issues surrounding gifts received by Alito and Thomas.
Other recordings made at the same event show Alito discussing the political divide in the country and agreeing with the need to return the country to a place of “godliness.” Alito has faced criticism following reports that flags associated with Capitol rioters were flown at his home after the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection. Despite calls for recusal from cases involving the rioters and charges related to Trump’s election interference, Alito has refused to step down from those cases.
Alito’s comments highlight the contentious relationship between the Supreme Court and the media, with accusations of bias and unethical behavior on both sides. The discussion at the event reflects Alito’s frustration with media scrutiny and criticism, particularly from investigative outlets like ProPublica. The revelations of expensive gifts received by justices raise questions about ethical standards on the court and the influence of wealthy donors on judicial decisions.
The audio recordings provide a rare glimpse into the private opinions of a sitting Supreme Court justice and shed light on the challenges faced by the court in maintaining public trust and confidence. Alito’s comments about media bias and ideological attacks underscore the ongoing debate over the role of the press in holding public officials accountable. The controversy surrounding Alito’s interactions with wealthy donors and potential conflicts of interest further fuel concerns about the transparency and integrity of the Supreme Court.
