“It is not COVID related. The Justice does not have COVID,” a spokesperson for the Supreme Court said.
“He underwent tests, was diagnosed with an infection, and is being treated with intravenous antibiotics,” the court’s press release said.
“His symptoms are abating, he is resting comfortably, and he expects to be released from the hospital in a day or two. Justice Thomas will participate in the consideration and discussion of any cases for which he is not present on the basis of the briefs, transcripts, and audio of the oral arguments,” it added.
Thomas’ hospitalization comes as the justices, all of whom are vaccinated and boosted against Covid-19, are expected to take the bench Monday morning for arguments. Thomas will not participate remotely in oral arguments over the telephone Monday, according to the Supreme Court spokesperson. After years of near total silence from the bench, Thomas now regularly asks the first questions at oral arguments.
This story has been updated with additional information.
