The judges on the Supreme Court arguably are some of the most powerful people in our country. They decide what cases they hear, rule on laws and can change the course of our democracy with any decision.

I have worked for many companies and agencies in my career and have always believed that ethics play an important part of all our work. Every company, and particularly government agencies, pride themselves in operating ethically and avoiding even the appearance of a conflict of interest. Every company has a board that oversees performance, makes sure income and expenses are transparent and, most importantly, that the policies of the organization are implemented. One thing they all have in common is a code of ethics.

Today I read that Justice Clarence Thomas has taken major gifts from a friend for years that included free trips – and who knows what else, because he has not reported it. That alone defies logic.

He and all judges have a responsibility to make that information transparent. Better yet, to not take gifts from people that bring the credibility of the court in question. It is past time the Supreme Court has a code of ethics with repercussions if it is not adhered to.

Bill Keefer
Portland

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