The hypocrisy is stunning.
President Biden’s push to implement a strict ethics code for Supreme Court justices is raising eyebrows, especially given his own entanglements with billionaire benefactor Joe Kiani. Critics argue that the administration’s ethics rhetoric seems disingenuous, particularly in light of recent revelations about Biden’s connections with Kiani, who has been a significant donor to Biden’s various political and charitable ventures.
Recently, following his speech at the Democratic National Convention, President Biden and his family traveled to Santa Ynez, California, where they are reportedly vacationing at Kiani’s ranch-style estate at no cost. White House officials have downplayed the situation, referring to Kiani as a “friend.” However, this friendship is under scrutiny due to Kiani’s substantial financial contributions. According to House Republicans, Kiani has donated nearly $3 million to Biden’s super PAC, foundation, and inaugural committee. Furthermore, in September 2021, Kiani was appointed by Biden to the Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. This council influences policies that could benefit Kiani’s company, Masimo, which has secured nearly $3 million in federal contracts since Biden took office.
The relationship between Biden and Kiani mirrors controversies involving other prominent Democrats. For example, Justice Clarence Thomas has faced criticism for his ties with GOP donor Harlan Crow, which has fueled calls for Supreme Court reforms, including enforceable ethics rules and term limits. Similarly, Biden’s connections with major Democratic donors raise questions about the ethical standards of his administration.
In April 2022, twelve House Republicans sent a letter to the Office of Management and Budget, expressing concerns about whether political donations might be influencing the administration’s management of federal contracts and loans, particularly in light of Biden’s interactions with Kiani.
Moreover, Biden’s vacation habits have come under fire. Reports indicate that the President has stayed at other high-profile donor properties, including those of climate activist Tom Steyer and Democratic donor Maria Allwin. These trips have led to an ethics complaint filed with the Department of Justice, alleging serious lapses in the President’s disclosure of these perks.
Kendra Arnold, Executive Director of the Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust, emphasizes that these connections reinforce the perception that large donations result in special treatment and access. She argues that Biden’s trips and relationships with wealthy donors raise significant questions about conflict of interest and ethical standards.
While Biden advocates for strict ethical standards for Supreme Court justices, his administration’s actions suggest a troubling double standard. The apparent intertwining of personal and political relationships with major donors casts a shadow over the President’s calls for greater accountability within the judiciary.
