Several lawyers who have had business before the supreme court, including one who successfully argued to end race-conscious admissions at universities, paid money to a top aide to Justice Clarence Thomas, according to the aide’s Venmo transactions.
Vasisht’s Venmo account – which was public prior to requesting comment for this article and is no longer – show that he received seven payments in November and December 2019 from lawyers who previously served as Thomas legal clerks.
Consovoy clerked for Thomas during the 2008-09 term and was considered a rising star in conservative legal circles.
None of the lawyers who made payments responded to emailed questions from the Guardian.
Thomas could invite them to his Christmas party and he could attend Christmas parties, as long as they are not discussing any cases.
His Christmas party should not be paid for by lawyers,” Painter said.
But almost all of the lawyers who made the payments are senior litigators at big law firms. »
