Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has informed lawmakers that he will not recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 presidential election or the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot despite recent concerns over flags flown on his properties.
In a letter distributed by the Supreme Court, Alito stated that the incidents in question did not meet the criteria for recusal. He emphasized that he had no involvement in the display of the controversial flags and was unaware of them until they were brought to his attention.
Alito's response is considered highly unusual, as Supreme Court justices typically do not engage in exchanges with lawmakers regarding recusal decisions. The ongoing scrutiny surrounding the flags has prompted Alito to address the matter directly.
The Supreme Court is currently deliberating on significant cases linked to the 2020 election and the Capitol riot. These cases include former President Donald Trump's immunity claim in the face of election subversion charges and a challenge from a January 6 rioter contesting an obstruction charge.
Regarding the upside-down US flag flown at his Virginia residence, Alito reiterated that the decision was made by his wife during a neighborhood dispute. He emphasized that his wife, as a private citizen, has the right to exercise her First Amendment freedoms, including displaying flags.
Alito clarified that he personally does not share his wife's affinity for flying flags, indicating that her actions are independent of his own preferences.
