Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has fostered connections with wealthy individuals through the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, a scholarship association. These connections have resulted in Thomas and his wife, Virginia, receiving invitations to luxurious vacations, exclusive parties, and V.I.P. access to sports events. Thomas has even had the opportunity to interact with prominent figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Ed McMahon during a lavish three-day birthday celebration for billionaire industrialist Dennis Washington in Montana.

Beyond extravagant trips, Thomas' association with Horatio Alger has provided additional benefits. Contacts within the association, including Dennis Washington and investor David Sokol, have supported a documentary that portrayed Thomas in a positive light following the release of an HBO movie depicting Anita Hill's sexual harassment allegations against him during his confirmation hearings. The Sokol family has also hosted the Thomases at their properties in Montana and Florida. The New York Times notes that Thomas has not disclosed many of the gifts and benefits he has received from his wealthy allies, and he declined to comment on the matter when questioned by the paper.

While Thomas initially reported personal gifts early in his Supreme Court tenure, including private plane flights, cigars, and clothing, he ceased reporting certain gifts and benefits after 2004. A ProPublica investigation in 2023 revealed Thomas' close relationship with Harlan Crow, a GOP megadonor known for his collection of Nazi memorabilia and Hitler paintings. Crow provided Thomas with trips on his private jet and yacht and even purchased a house for Thomas' mother. Additionally, Crow paid tuition for Thomas' nephew. Thomas defended his lack of disclosures by stating that he was advised by colleagues and others in the judiciary that reporting trips of "personal hospitality" from friends was unnecessary.

It is worth mentioning that Thomas has granted unusual access to the Horatio Alger Association by hosting their induction ceremony for new members in the Supreme Court's courtroom. This access has allowed the association to fundraise for scholarships and events. While the court has updated its disclosure rules this year to include private jet travel and comped stays at hotels and resorts, there remains an exception for "personal hospitality" unrelated to business.

In 2010, Thomas expressed his gratitude to the Horatio Alger Association, stating that it has been a home to him and his wife and has helped him realize his dreams. However, if those dreams were of undisclosed luxury vacations and exclusive access, it appears they have come to fruition.

https://news.yahoo.com/investigation-uncovers-more-clarence-thomas-160506992.html