Senate Subpoenas Conservative Activists, Sparks Controversy and Division
US ethics watchdog groups praised the Senate judiciary committee's decision to issue subpoenas for rightwing donor Harlan Crow and activist Leonard Leo, seeking information about gifts given to conservative justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas. The subpoenas were approved by all 11 Democratic senators on the committee, while Republicans objected and accused Democrats of engaging in a witch-hunt. The gifts, which include undisclosed lavish items, have raised concerns about ethics violations and corruption within the Supreme Court. Leonard Leo stated that he will not comply with the congressional subpoena.