More Than 100 Former Clerks Rally Behind Justice Clarence Thomas
In a powerful display of solidarity, 112 former clerks of Justice Clarence Thomas have come together to defend their esteemed mentor against relentless attacks on his character and integrity. This open letter serves as a resounding declaration, denouncing the ongoing assault on Justice Thomas and the Supreme Court itself.
The letter emphatically describes Justice Thomas as a man of unparalleled intellect, unwavering faith, and unwavering patriotism. It firmly asserts that the attacks against him are not only baseless but also part of a broader campaign aimed at undermining the legitimacy of the Court as an institution.
“Different paths led us to our year with Justice Thomas, and we have followed different paths since. But along the way, we all saw with our own eyes the same thing: His integrity is unimpeachable. And his independence is unshakable, deeply rooted seven decades ago as that young child who walked through the door of his grandparents’ house for a life forever changed.”
The letter goes on to provide a glimpse into the remarkable life story of Justice Thomas, depicting a journey from poverty in the segregated South to becoming one of the most influential legal figures in the United States. This narrative of triumph over adversity serves as a testament to Thomas’s unyielding character and unwavering commitment to justice.
“His grandfather’s sayings become our sayings. His chambers become our chambers – a place fueled by unstoppable curiosity and unreturned library books, all to get every case just right.”
The former clerks paint a vivid picture of Justice Thomas as a man of unwavering principle, welcoming dissent and guided by a profound sense of humor, warmth, and generosity. They recount their personal experiences, highlighting the profound impact Justice Thomas had on their lives and careers.
“He is a man of unwavering principle. He welcomes the lone dissent. He is also a man of great humor and warmth and generosity. Walk the halls, and you’ll hear his laugh. Call, and he answers.”
The letter acknowledges the recent attacks on Justice Thomas regarding his personal friendships and potential gifts received from them. It firmly dismisses these attacks as malicious and part of a broader effort to discredit both the Court and Justice Thomas’s reputation.
“Lately, the stories have questioned his integrity and his ethics for the friends he keeps. They bury the lede. These friends are not parties before him as a Justice of the Court. And these stories are malicious, perpetuating the ugly assumption that the Justice cannot think for himself.”
The letter concludes by reaffirming the pride these former clerks have in their association with Justice Thomas and their unwavering support for his character, integrity, and ethics. It urges others to recognize the incredible journey Justice Thomas has undertaken and the lessons his life story holds for all Americans.
“We are proud to have been his clerks and to remain his friends, and we unequivocally reject attacks on his integrity, his character, or his ethics.”
The recent attacks on Justice Thomas highlight a broader effort to undermine not only his reputation but also the legitimacy of the Supreme Court as an institution. These attacks seek to cast doubt on the Court’s ability to dispense impartial justice, eroding public trust in the highest judicial body in the land.
Justice Thomas’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution and his principled approach to interpreting the law have left an indelible mark on the Supreme Court. His profound influence can be seen in his majority opinions, powerful dissents, and his steadfast defense of individual liberties.
The attacks on Justice Thomas serve as a stark reminder of the crucial role of judicial independence in our democracy. The judiciary’s ability to render impartial decisions without fear or favor is essential for maintaining the checks and balances that underpin our system of governance.
Efforts to undermine the integrity of individual justices, such as the attacks faced by Justice Thomas, threaten the very fabric of our legal system. It is imperative that we recognize the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary and protecting the reputation of our esteemed justices.
As Justice Clarence Thomas continues to serve on the Supreme Court, his legacy of integrity, independence, and principled jurisprudence remains an inspiration to aspiring legal minds across the nation. His journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of the American legal system serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice.
The resounding support from his former clerks underscores the profound impact Justice Thomas has had on his colleagues and the legal community at large. Their open letter stands as a testament to his unimpeachable character and serves as a rallying cry in defense of justice and the rule of law.