The conservative justice was not present for oral arguments on Monday, but the court did not provide a reason why.
Conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was not present at the court for oral arguments on Monday, with the court giving no reason for his absence.
Chief Justice John Roberts said in court that Thomas “is not on the bench today” but would “participate fully” in the two cases being argued based on the briefs and transcripts.
A court spokeswoman had no further information.
Thomas, 75, is the eldest of the nine justices. The court has a 6-3 conservative majority.
Pretty much this. Obama sat on his hands with regard to the whole “you can’t appoint justices in an election year” thing, despite having options. I get not wanting to give your opposition reasons to beat the “they’re ALL TYRANTS” drum, but he really should’ve seen that was going to happen regardless.