Controversy Surrounding Clarence Thomas and His Associates

Senate Democrats are considering inviting Justice Clarence Thomas to a forthcoming hearing on the Supreme Court's ethical standards, rather than subpoenaing him. Democrats on the Judiciary Committee met to discuss details of the hearing, which is still in the planning stages. Judiciary Democrats have already sent a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts urging him to investigate Thomas' undisclosed acceptance of luxury travel and gifts from wealthy GOP donor Harlan Crow. Senators are still hoping that the Supreme Court will take its own action, but the panel is also open to discussing proposals to impose a formal code of ethics on the court.