Beyoncé tickets, Bali trips and book deals: Here is how Supreme Court Justices earned money in 2024

How Supreme Court Justices earned money: Insights from 2024 financial disclosures

Credit: Fred Schilling

The United States Supreme Court, often veiled in an aura of secrecy, has now pulled back the curtain on the financial endeavors of its esteemed justices. The annual financial disclosures, a trove of intriguing details, reveal their earnings, investments, and potential conflicts of interest. Delve with me into the fascinating revelations from the 2024 reports.

1. Book deals and royalties

Credit: Britannica

Justice Neil Gorsuch, celebrated for his eloquent prose and sharp legal mind, amassed nearly $1.6 million from book deals. His literary works, not confined to the judicial sphere, have captivated audiences far beyond the marble steps of the Supreme Court. A jurist by day and a bestselling author by night, Gorsuch's dual roles paint a portrait of intellectual versatility.

2. Exotic trips and gifts

Credit: The Texas Tribune

Justice Clarence Thomas, a stalwart figure in the judiciary, disclosed two extravagant trips funded by Republican megadonor Harlan Crow. In 2019, Thomas journeyed to Bali, a far cry from the austere confines of the Supreme Court. These lavish excursions, juxtaposed with his judicial duties, offer a glimpse into the privileged circles in which some justices move.

3. Beyoncé concert tickets

Credit: Britannica

With her unflagging dedication to the law, Justice Sonia Sotomayor revealed a more playful side: she received complimentary tickets to a Beyoncé concert. A fervent fan of Queen Bey, Sotomayor's musical indulgence underscores the human dimensions of those who sit on the highest court. Even the stern robes of justice can't hide her admiration for pop royalty.

4. Real estate ventures

Credit: Harvard Magazine

Justice Elena Kagan has ventured into the world of real estate, adding a rental property to her financial portfolio. This foray into property investment hints at a shrewd financial acumen. Who knows? Perhaps Kagan's next legal opinion will be influenced by her experiences as a landlord, blending legal theory with real-world practice.

These disclosures emerge against a backdrop of growing demands for transparency and accountability within the Supreme Court. As the public's gaze sharpens, the justices' financial decisions are scrutinized increasingly. This annual unveiling demystifies their economic lives and reinforces the delicate balance they maintain between their judicial responsibilities and personal prosperity.

Dear reader, these justices—custodians of the Constitution—navigate not only the labyrinthine corridors of the law but also the complex terrain of personal finance. As we parse their financial disclosures, let us recognize the intricate dance they perform between their judicial duties and financial aspirations.