In a scathing accusation, Senator Chris Murphy has lambasted the Supreme Court, stating that it has become "brazenly corrupt and brazenly political." The remarks were made in response to recent reports exposing Justice Clarence Thomas' undisclosed lavish gifts and trips from conservative benefactors, as well as Justice Samuel Alito's public affiliation with political causes.

During an interview on Sunday's State of the Union on CNN, the Connecticut Democrat expressed deep concern about the state of the court. Senator Murphy specifically pointed to Justice Thomas and accused him of engaging in a "grift," alleging that a major political player is paying off the justice. Furthermore, Senator Murphy highlighted Justice Alito's open display of affiliation with political causes.

The senator's comments align with President Joe Biden's recent criticism of the court. Senator Murphy defended President Biden's remarks, stating that it would be irresponsible for the president to ignore the court's increasingly corrupt and political nature. He urged the American people to take action in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that it is also Congress' responsibility to pass a code of ethical conduct for the court.

The revelations about Justice Thomas' undisclosed gifts shed light on his connections with right-wing activists, including Harlan Crowe, a wealthy GOP megadonor with controversial views. Crowe allegedly provided Thomas with private jet and luxury yacht rides, expensive vacations, tuition payments for his grandson, and even real estate purchases. These unreported gifts were uncovered by ProPublica, a renowned investigative journalism outlet.

Meanwhile, Justice Alito has recently faced scrutiny for flying a conservative political flag at his New Jersey vacation home, which bears resemblance to those carried by individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot. He also displayed an upside-down American flag, a symbol of distress associated with Trump supporters and white nationalists. Despite receiving a letter from 40 House Democrats calling for his recusal from Jan. 6-related cases, Justice Alito has refused to step down.

Both justices have voiced their dissatisfaction with the media's coverage of the court's ethics scandals. Justice Alito, in a recording obtained by Rolling Stone, criticized ProPublica directly, suggesting that the negative coverage stems from well-funded ideological groups. Alito's wife, Martha-Ann Alito, also expressed her frustrations, complaining about liberals, the media, and the presence of Pride flags in her neighborhood.

The revelations surrounding Justice Thomas and Justice Alito have reignited calls from some Democrats for greater checks on the court's conduct. Representative Jamie Raskin, for instance, has proposed a $50 gift ban for justices, arguing that they should cover their own expenses given their annual salary of $300,000.

As the allegations of undisclosed gifts and political affiliations continue to create controversy, the Supreme Court finds itself embroiled in a debate over its integrity and impartiality. With figures like Senator Murphy and President Biden raising concerns, the future of the highest court in the land remains a topic of intense scrutiny and debate.