Democratic Senators Wyden and Whitehouse are seeking more information from Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas about a $267,000 loan he received in 1999 to purchase a high-end motorhome. The senators are concerned that Thomas may have failed to report the loan forgiveness to the IRS, potentially leading to a tax violation. Thomas’ lawyer, Elliot Berke, previously stated that the justice had complied with all disclosure rules regarding the loan. However, the senators are demanding further details to clarify whether Thomas fully repaid the loan or if any part was forgiven.
The loan, received from a close friend of Thomas, was used to purchase a luxury motorhome with extravagant features. Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee suspect that the loan forgiveness was not reported by Thomas as income, despite evidence indicating that most or all of the loan was forgiven. The senators are requesting a detailed response by June 3 to address these concerns.
In addition to the loan scrutiny, Thomas has faced criticism for accepting expensive travel, prompting the Supreme Court to adopt a code of conduct. Recent disclosures include Thomas accepting travel from a GOP donor and Justice Alito flying to Alaska on a private jet owned by a hedge fund manager with cases before the court. Thomas has expressed frustration with the negative environment in Washington, stating that reputations are easily attacked. The senators are pressing for clarity on the loan forgiveness and expect a response to their inquiries.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
