Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts rejected Thursday Democratic senators' demands that he discuss reports that a "Stop the Steal" symbol hung in fellow justice Sam Alito's yard after the U.S. Capitol attacks, reports show.
Roberts told Democratic lawmakers their demand — a chance argue Alito's wife's actions threw into question his ability to fairly judge former President Donald Trump's election interference case defense — would tarnish an important precedent, CNN reports.
“Separation of powers concerns and the importance of preserving judicial independence counsel against such appearances,” Roberts reportedly wrote.
Sens. Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) have already asked Alito to recuse himself from considering Trump's presidential immunity claim against the charges brought by special counsel Jack Smith.
"My wife is fond of flying flags," Alito replied in his recusal refusal letter. "I am not."
ALSO READ:'Make her stop': Alito's neighbors say his wife launched harassment campaign after Jan. 6
News that Roberts would back Alito against the Democratic lawmakers' demands was met frustration and outrage.
"If John Roberts will not meet voluntarily, SUBPOENA HIM," demanded Keith Olbermann. "If he skirts the subpoena ARREST HIM."
"Can we subpoena them now?" added @MuellerSheWrote. "Or are we gonna write more letters?"
"John Roberts, again, has already spoken about Alito’s ethical failures," wrote Elie Mystal. "And Roberts is IN FAVOR of the corruption, not against it."
"He's as corrupt as the rest," replied X user Paul Lackey.
"The cowardly lion," added Trace Crutchfield.
"Absolutely ungovernable and rogue institution," wrote X use Aron.
"Folks, don’t let his milquetoast smile and mild manner deceive you," said @RobertWalter. "He’s no institutionalist, he’s one of them."