Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas was absent from oral arguments on Monday without providing an explanation. The court did not offer any reasons for his non-attendance, and it is common practice for justices to participate remotely through transcripts and briefs when they are unable to physically attend the Supreme Court building due to illness or other reasons.
Thomas, who is 75 years old and the oldest member of the court, plays a crucial role in the influential conservative bloc. He was appointed as an associate justice in 1991 by then-President George H.W. Bush and has since been confirmed by the Senate. With recent appointments to the Supreme Court, Thomas’ influence has increased as he remains the senior member of the six-member conservative bloc.
In 2022, Thomas was hospitalized due to an infection after experiencing symptoms resembling the flu. Despite this setback, he has continued to serve on the Supreme Court with diligence and commitment. Business Insider reached out to the Supreme Court for further information but did not receive a response at this time.
