Justice Samuel Alito disclosed receiving $900 worth of concert tickets from a German princess in his recent financial disclosure form. The form did not detail the event but mentioned the gift from socialite Gloria von Thurn und Taxis. Alito did not report any outside income from teaching or book contracts.
Alito's filing comes amid increased scrutiny on ethics at the Supreme Court, with criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices. Other justices filed their forms in June, while Alito received an extension.
Justice Clarence Thomas acknowledged additional travel expenses paid by a Republican megadonor, including stays in Bali, Indonesia, and Sonoma County, California. Alito previously took a private plane trip to an Alaska fishing lodge in 2008, funded by wealthy Republican donors.
Alito also reported stock sales, including selling Anheuser Busch stock in 2023 and a loan from Edward D. Jones. He faced criticism over flags flown outside his homes, which he attributed to his wife.
The justices recently adopted an ethics code, lacking enforcement mechanisms. Some Democrats, including President Joe Biden, advocate for a binding code of conduct and investigations for violations. Justice Elena Kagan supports an enforcement mechanism, but legislative action is uncertain in Congress.
Financial disclosures provide a limited view of the justices' finances, excluding home values and spouses' salaries. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson also disclosed concert tickets, a gift from Beyoncé. Several justices reported significant payments from book deals in addition to their salaries.
In their roles, justices earn $298,500 annually, except Chief Justice John Roberts, who earns $312,200.
