WASHINGTON — Conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was absent from court Monday for oral arguments, with the court giving no reason for his absence.
Chief Justice John Roberts told the court that Thomas was “not on the bench today” but would be “fully present” in the two contested cases based on briefs and transcripts.
The court spokesman did not provide additional information.
Thomas, 75, is the oldest of the nine judges. The court has a 6-3 conservative majority.
Often, if there is no justice for oral arguments, the court will give a reason, including in cases where there is a health problem.
In February of last year, conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch was absent for arguments, saying the court felt “under the weather.”
When Thomas is himself He was hospitalized in 2022the court announced that he had an infection and was treated with antibiotics.