Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas expressed gratitude toward Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) during a recent appearance on the senator’s podcast. In the opening segment of the episode, Thomas commended Cruz for his public support, specifically citing the senator's willingness to defend him against ethics complaints that have been leveled against the justice in recent years.

Thomas told Cruz, “You’re one of the people who actually stands up, particularly at times when others seem to wither, and I appreciate it.” The comments highlight the ongoing relationship between the conservative justice and the Republican senator, who has frequently used his platform to criticize the scrutiny directed at the Supreme Court’s ethics and disclosure practices.

While the justice framed the senator’s actions as a courageous act of loyalty, the ethics complaints in question—which have largely centered on undisclosed gifts and travel from wealthy donors—remain a subject of intense debate in Washington. Critics of the Court argue that these disclosures are necessary for transparency and public trust, while supporters like Cruz maintain that the complaints are politically motivated attacks intended to undermine the judiciary. The podcast appearance serves as a rare public acknowledgment by a sitting justice regarding the political firestorm surrounding the Court’s ethical standards.