Clarence Thomas Faces Less Oversight Than ‘Lowliest’ US Worker

Chief Justice John Roberts says he’s committed to ensuring the US Supreme Court adheres to the highest standards of conduct — but most federal employees already are subject to more stringent oversight than the justices.

Revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas’s failure to disclose luxury travel and other perks paid for by billionaire friend Harlan Croware fueling debate about Supreme Court conduct. But a review of ethics policies across the federal government shows the other 2 million workers would face a harder time accepting gifts far smaller than those Crow bestowed on Thomas.

Most federal employees can accept ...