Justice Alito Recuses From Landmark Climate Case, Says Consumer Watchdog
Justice Alito Recuses From Landmark Climate Case, Says Consumer Watchdog
PR Newswire
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2026
This month Consumer Watchdog revealed companies Alito invests in warned shareholders climate lawsuits pose financial risks — at least one company is a defendant in every case identified as stayed pending Suncor
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has recused himself from Suncor v. Boulder, the landmark climate deception case that will open the Supreme Court's new term exactly one week from today, on Oct. 5, following Consumer Watchdog's call for him to step aside over his investments in oil companies facing climate lawsuits that could be affected by the case.
The Supreme Court clerk informed the parties Monday that Alito "has determined that he will not continue to participate in this case." The Court offered no explanation for the decision.
Alito's recusal follows new research released by Consumer Watchdog showing that he owns individual stock in ConocoPhillips and Phillips 66, two companies that have warned their shareholders for years that climate lawsuits against them pose financial risks.
Consumer Watchdog's review also found that every climate case identified as currently stayed pending the outcome of Suncor v. Boulder names ConocoPhillips, Phillips 66 or both as defendants. Those cases include lawsuits brought by California, New Jersey, Delaware, Hoboken and eight California cities and counties.
"Justice Alito's recusal from Suncor v. Boulder is the right decision, and one he should have made from the start. The Supreme Court's Code of Conduct says a justice should step aside when the justice has a financial interest in the subject matter of a case or another interest that could be substantially affected by its outcome. Justice Alito holds investments in ConocoPhillips and Phillips66. The public should not have to wonder whether a justice's personal investments could benefit from a ruling that shields the fossil-fuel industry from liability," said Alexandra Nagy, Organizing Director with Consumer Watchdog.
Alito's decision comes exactly one week before the Supreme Court begins its 2026-2027 term. Suncor Energy v. Boulder County will be the first case argued before the Court when the Justices return to the bench at 10 a.m. on Oct. 5.
SOURCE Consumer Watchdog
The articles, information, and content displayed on this webpage may include materials prepared and provided by third parties. Such third-party content is offered for informational purposes only and is not endorsed, reviewed, or verified by Morningstar.
Morningstar makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or reliability of any third-party content displayed on this site. The views and opinions expressed in third-party content are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Morningstar, its affiliates, or employees.
Morningstar is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or delays in this content, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Users are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent financial advice before making any decisions based on such content. The third-party providers of this content are not affiliated with Morningstar, and their inclusion on this site does not imply any form of partnership, agency, or endorsement.
Popular
These Overvalued Stocks Have Plenty of Room to Fall
The 10 Best Companies to Invest in Now
Your Year-End Financial Checklist: 5 Things to Tackle Before 2027
4 Big Impacts From the US Midterm Elections for Investors
United States