FALSE FLAG: Judge Michael Ponsor's Blatant Hypocrisy
In yet another blatant display of partisan bias, a sitting federal judge appointed by Bill Clinton, Senior Judge Michael Ponsor, has stepped into the political fray with an extrajudicial attack on Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. This unwarranted commentary comes amid critical decisions pending before the Court, highlighting the Democratic Party’s relentless campaign to undermine conservative voices in the judiciary.
Justice Alito’s wife found herself in a minor controversy back in 2021 when she briefly flew an upside-down American flag—a symbol often used in political protest. This act, while perfectly legal and not uncommon during events like the BLM riots, was recently seized upon by the media. The Washington Post considered running a story but found that Justice Alito was unaware of his wife's actions. Despite this, liberal critics have targeted the Alito family and demanded Justice Alito's recusal.
Recently, Judge Ponsor wrote a politically charged opinion piece for the New York Times, condemning Justice Alito and making statements that violate basic judicial ethics. He claimed that the Alitos’ display of an upside down American flag and the "Appeal to Heaven" flag—a historic flag and the official maritime ensign of Massachusetts, also flown over San Francisco City Hall—was comparable to a “Stop the Steal” bumper sticker, asserting it as a partisan symbol. This flag, misunderstood by some as an insurrectionist emblem, has become another tool for left-wing agitators to attack conservative figures.
Judge Ponsor’s comments are not only biased but also a direct violation of the judicial ethical standards he is supposed to uphold. According to Canon 3A(6) of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges, “A judge should not make public comment on the merits of a matter pending or impending in any court.” By publicly criticizing Justice Alito, Judge Ponsor disregards this ethical mandate, thereby undermining the very principles he purports to defend.
The timing of this attack is particularly suspicious. It coincides with the Biden administration’s broader strategy to exert pressure on the Supreme Court as it deliberates on significant cases such as Fischer and Trump’s presidential immunity. This coordinated effort by Democrat operatives to intimidate conservative justices is a clear attempt to sway judicial outcomes in their favor.
We learned of this story from Mike Davis, a former Chief Counsel for Nominations on the Senate Judiciary Committee and a former Law Clerk for Justice Gorsuch. Davis's insights further underscore the concerning nature of this judge's actions and the broader implications for judicial integrity.
Before Judge Ponsor lectures Supreme Court justices on ethics, he should scrutinize his own actions. His willingness to abandon impartiality for political gain is a stark reminder of the partisan corruption that plagues our judicial system under Democratic influence. It is imperative for voters to recognize these tactics and support Republican candidates who will restore integrity and balance to our courts.
As conservatives, we must stand united against these unjust attacks and mobilize to support President Trump and Republican candidates who are committed to defending our values and preserving the integrity of our judiciary.