In a series of revelations, three separate reports have emerged indicating that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito displayed controversial flags at his vacation homes in both New Jersey and Virginia during the summer of 2023. The most recent disclosure comes from The New York Times, which obtained photographs showing an 'Appeal to Heaven' flag flying outside Alito's beach house on Long Beach Island, New Jersey.
The 'Appeal to Heaven' flag, also known as the 'Pine Tree flag,' is a historical symbol rooted in Revolutionary War-era naval vessels under George Washington. However, it has gained renewed attention in recent years due to its association with some Trump supporters and its use during the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
The Times reports that critics argue Alito should recuse himself from the Supreme Court's pending decision on whether Trump is covered by presidential immunity claims due to these flags. The controversy comes after a similar uproar in 2021 when an upside-down American flag was displayed outside Alito's Virginia home.
The New York Times article states, 'Three photographs obtained by The New York Times, along with accounts from a half-dozen neighbors and passers-by, show that the Appeal to Heaven flag was aloft at the Alito home on Long Beach Island in July and September of 2023. A Google Street View image from late August also shows the flag.'
The 'Appeal to Heaven' flag is not alone in its controversial association with Alito's vacation homes. The New York Times article also mentions that a '2022 Phillies flag and a Long Beach Island flag were flying alongside it.'
Another report from The Independent reveals that the 'Appeal to Heaven' flag was seen flying outside Alito's New Jersey beach home multiple times in July and September of 2023.
The Independent article states, 'Justice Samuel Alito’s New Jersey beach home had a ‘Appeal to Heaven’ flag, which was carried by January 6 rioters, flying outside multiple times in July and September of 2023.'
These developments add to the growing controversy surrounding Alito's display of potentially divisive symbols at his vacation homes. The implications for the Supreme Court's impartiality and Alito's own reputation are significant, as the court prepares to rule on a high-profile case involving former President Trump.
