Jimmy Williams
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito recently voiced his doubts about finding compromise between left and right political views in the United States. The conversation, posted by filmmaker Lauren Windsor on social media, took place at the Supreme Court Historical Society’s annual dinner last week.
Alito Questions Compromise and Supports “Godliness”
In the recording, Alito expressed his skepticism about the possibility of compromise on major issues. He stated, “One side or the other is going to win. There can be a way of working, a way of living together peacefully, but it’s difficult because there are differences on fundamental things that really can’t be compromised.”
Windsor then suggested that the solution is to win the moral argument and return the country to “a place of godliness.” Alito agreed, responding, “I agree with you.”
Chief Justice Roberts Disagrees
Windsor also spoke with Chief Justice John Roberts during the event. When Windsor suggested that the court should lead the nation on a “Christian” path, Roberts disagreed. He replied, “I don’t know if that’s true.”
Controversial Flags and Ethics Concerns
Alito faces criticism for not recusing himself from cases involving former President Donald Trump and Jan. 6 defendants. Controversy arose after stories about flags flown at his homes. In 2021, an upside-down flag flew over his home, and last year, an “Appeal to Heaven” flag appeared at his New Jersey beach house. Both flags were similar to those used by rioters at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
Alito explained that his wife, Martha-Ann, was responsible for these flags. In another recording, Martha-Ann said she wanted to fly a religious flag because “I have to look across the lagoon at the Pride flag for the next month.” Alito reportedly asked her not to put up any flag, but she also mentioned considering a flag with “yellow and orange flames” and the Italian word for shame.
Calls for Supreme Court Accountability
Lauren Windsor defended her recordings, saying, “The Supreme Court is shrouded in secrecy, and they’re refusing to submit to any accountability in the face of overwhelming evidence of serious ethics breaches. I think it’s justified to take these types of measures.”
Chief Justice Roberts has declined to meet with Democratic senators to discuss Supreme Court ethics and the flags flown outside Alito’s homes.
This incident adds to the ongoing debate about Supreme Court ethics and the personal conduct of justices, especially in politically sensitive cases. The conversation has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability within the highest court in the United States.