Senator Dick Durbin, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has issued a stern call for Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election and the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
This demand comes on the heels of revelations that an upside-down U.S. flag, a symbol of the “Stop the Steal” movement, was flown outside Alito’s home during the Capitol riot.
Durbin asserts that this act creates the appearance of bias and violates the Supreme Court’s new judicial code of ethics, which emphasizes the importance of avoiding political statements and the appearance of bias.
Senator Durbin Seeks Justice Alito’s Recusal After Shocking ‘Stop the Steal’ Flag Display
Durbin’s statement highlights the gravity of the situation, stating, “Flying an upside-down American flag… clearly creates the appearance of bias.
Justice Alito should recuse himself immediately from cases related to the 2020 election and the January 6th insurrection…” The senator’s call for recusal is particularly significant given the Supreme Court’s current consideration of U.S. v. Donald Trump, a case involving the former President’s immunity.
While Alito has blamed his wife for displaying the flag, Durbin argues that this explanation does not excuse the apparent violation of the judicial code of ethics.
The senator’s statement also alludes to the broader ethical crisis facing the Supreme Court, urging the justices to take concrete steps to regain public trust. Durbin’s call for action raises questions about whether he will follow through with concrete measures, such as subpoenas, to address the ethical lapses on the Court.
