U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has reportedly attended events organized by the influential Koch network, forming a bond with the conservative Koch brothers during all-male retreats. ProPublica's recent investigation sheds light on these connections.
Justice Clarence Thomas and the Koch Network: A Closer Look
The Koch Network's Marquee Fundraising Event
The Koch Network hosts its premier fundraising event in Southern California each winter. To secure an invitation, donors must contribute at least $100,000 annually. This event provides donors with insights into the utilization of their contributions.
Exclusive dinners with Charles Koch and distinguished guests are on offer for major contributors who donate millions. While David Koch, Charles's brother, passed away in 2019, the allure of these gatherings endures.
Justice Thomas's Involvement
Justice Thomas has attended at least one of these top-donor dinners, as reported by ProPublica. His presence at the 2018 Koch network event in Palm Springs, California, is noted. Additionally, there was a "brief drop-by" at a 2008 summit, although he was primarily in the area to speak at a Federalist Society dinner, according to a Supreme Court spokeswoman.
Sources of Information
ProPublica compiled its findings from anonymous sources, including former Koch network employees and a significant donor. Flight records were examined, and a photograph of Justice Thomas with David Koch at the Bohemian Grove, an all-male retreat frequented by influential figures, was obtained. Thomas has been a regular attendee at the Bohemian Grove for over 25 years.
The Crow Connection
During his visits to the Bohemian Grove, Justice Thomas was the guest of Harlan Crow, a Republican megadonor and billionaire. Crow has extended numerous lavish invitations to Justice Thomas and his wife, including luxury vacations at his private resort and Texas ranch, travel aboard his superyacht, and trips on his private jet. Thomas shared accommodations with Crow and the Koch brothers at the Bohemian Grove.
Understanding the Koch Network
The Koch network is described as an interconnected group of nonprofits. The Koch brothers, known for their strong aversion to government regulation, have played a prominent role within this network.
Support for a Supreme Court Case
The Koch network supports the plaintiffs in a pending Supreme Court case aimed at overturning the Chevron deference principle, which calls for federal courts to defer to reasonable federal agency interpretations when Congress passes ambiguous laws. The Cause of Action Institute, representing the plaintiffs in the case (Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo), has received substantial funding from the Koch network, as reported by the Washington Post.
