John Oliver, host of the popular satirical news show “Last Week Tonight,” publicly called for the resignation of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas — offering him an annual sum of $1 million as an incentive.
On his season premiere, Mr. Oliver delivered a scathing critique of Justice Thomas’s tenure, accusing him of having a negative impact on the lives of Americans.
Alongside the monetary offer, Mr. Oliver also tempted the justice with the possibility of owning a luxurious recreational vehicle upon stepping down — a $2.4 million RV with a king bed, 1.5 bathrooms, a “f—-ing fireplace,” four TVs and a residential-sized fridge.
“We have a special offer for you tonight,” Mr. Oliver said. “We are prepared to offer you $1 million a year for the rest of your life, if you simply agree to leave the Supreme Court immediately and never come back,” he said.
“This is not a joke! A million dollars a year until you — or I — die,” Mr. Oliver said. “So that’s the offer. $1 million a year, Clarence. And a brand new condo on wheels. And all you have to do in return is sign the contract and get the f‑‑‑ off the Supreme Court,” he said.
Justice Thomas has been the subject of controversy following investigative reports by ProPublica. Their reports brought to light his failure to disclose trips and other gifts reportedly received from Harlan Crow, a conservative billionaire, stirring up conversations among media personalities and ethics groups about potential implications for judicial conduct.
“I think you’re thinking, ‘what would my friend say if I take this offer? Will they judge me as they sit in their boardrooms and mega yachts and Hitler shrines? Will they still treat me to luxury vacations and sing songs about me off their phones?’” Mr. Oliver said.
The HBO host concluded by saying that the offer was not coming from the network, but directly from him. “I am personally on the hook. You can make me really regret this. I could be doing stand-up tours to pay for your retirement for years,” he said.
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