John Oliver Proposes Million-Dollar Deal for Clarence Thomas to Resign

During the season premiere of HBO's "Last Week Tonight," host John Oliver made a provocative offer to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Oliver proposed a payment of $1 million per year, along with a $2.4 million motor coach, if Thomas would resign from his position on the Supreme Court immediately. This offer comes amidst Oliver's criticism of Thomas for alleged conflicts of interest, citing the Justice's acceptance of gifts and vacations from individuals such as a GOP megadonor, as well as Thomas' refusal to recuse himself from cases involving his wife, Ginni Thomas.

The segment highlighted the issue of Supreme Court Justices receiving gifts, noting that Justice Thomas has reportedly accepted various gifts from billionaires and others, which have not always been disclosed. Oliver emphasized that Thomas' benefactors became friends with him after his appointment to the court and that he once received a $267,000 loan for a motor coach that was not repaid.

Oliver's unusual offer is framed within a broader discussion about the integrity of the Supreme Court and public trust in the institution, which, according to Oliver, has significantly declined. He concluded the segment by questioning the legality of such an offer and urged for Congressional action on what he suggests is a form of "legalized bribery." Oliver defended the offer by stating that there are currently no rules preventing him from doing so.