Clarence Thomas, the longest-serving and second-oldest justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, has been the target of a death hoax that circulated on social media in 2023. The rumor claimed that the 75-year-old lawyer had passed away due to an infection, but it was quickly debunked by official sources. Thomas is still alive and well and continues to serve on the bench.
How did the death hoax start?
The death hoax started after Thomas was hospitalized with an infection in March 2022. He had experienced flu-like symptoms and underwent tests at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. The Supreme Court announced that he was diagnosed with an infection and was being treated with intravenous antibiotics. The court also said that his symptoms were abating and he expected to be released from the hospital in a day or two.
However, some online users took advantage of the situation and started spreading false information that Thomas had died. They used fake news websites, photoshopped images, and fabricated quotes to create the impression that Thomas had succumbed to his illness. Some of the fake headlines included:
- “BREAKING: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Dies at 75”
- “Justice Clarence Dead After Contracting Deadly Infection”
- “RIP Clarence: Supreme Court Mourns Loss of Conservative Icon”
These posts were shared widely on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and generated thousands of reactions, comments, and shares. Some people expressed their condolences, while others celebrated his death. Some even speculated about who would replace him on the court.
Is Clarence Thomas Still Alive?
| Name | Clarence Thomas |
|---|---|
| Born | June 23, 1948 |
| Occupation | Lawyer and jurist |
| Position | Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States |
| Appointed by | George H. W. Bush |
| Preceded by | Thurgood Marshall |
| Succeeded by | Incumbent |
| Spouse | Virginia Lamp (1987–2023) |
| Children | Jamal Adeen Thomas |
| Education | College of the Holy Cross (BA) Yale University (JD) |
| Alive | Yes |
How was the death hoax debunked?
The death hoax was debunked by several credible sources, including the Supreme Court itself, Thomas’ colleagues, and reputable media outlets. The court stated on March 24, 2022, confirmed that Thomas was still alive and had been discharged from the hospital. The court also said that Thomas had resumed his duties and was participating in the court’s cases and decisions.
Thomas’ fellow justices also spoke out in support of him and wished him a speedy recovery. Justice Stephen Breyer, who was retiring at the time, told TMZ that Thomas was “fine” and that he had spoken to him recently. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who had a close friendship with Thomas, said that he was “doing well” and that she was “very happy” for him.
Several media outlets also reported the truth about Thomas’ health and exposed the death hoax. They cited official sources and verified facts to refute the false claims. Some of the headlines included:
- “Supreme Court silent on Justice Clarence hospitalization”
- “What we know about Justice Clarence’ hospitalization”
- “Is Clarence Alive Or Dead | Illness And Health Update 2023”
These articles provided accurate and updated information about Thomas’ condition and recovery, and warned the readers not to fall for the death hoax.
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Why was Thomas targeted by the death hoax?
Thomas was targeted by the death hoax because he is a controversial and influential figure in American politics and law. He is the most conservative and outspoken justice on the Supreme Court, and has been involved in many landmark cases and rulings. He is also the second Black justice ever to serve on the court, and the first to be appointed by a Republican president.
Clarence Thomas has faced criticism and opposition from various groups and individuals, especially from the left-wing and liberal sectors. He has been accused of being anti-abortion, anti-gay, anti-affirmative action, and anti-civil rights. He has also been involved in several scandals and controversies, such as the sexual harassment allegations by Anita Hill in 1991, and the ethics complaints by Common Cause in 2011.
Thomas has also been praised and supported by many people, especially from the right-wing and conservative sectors. He has been hailed as a champion of originalism, textualism, federalism, and religious liberty. He has also been admired for his personal story of overcoming poverty, racism, and adversity to achieve success and prominence.
Thomas’ death would have significant implications for the balance and direction of the Supreme Court, as well as the political and legal landscape of the country. His replacement would be nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate, and would likely reflect their ideological preferences and agendas. Therefore, Thomas’ death hoax was a way of stirring up emotions, opinions, and speculations among the public.
How is Thomas doing now?
Thomas is doing well now and has fully recovered from his infection. He has resumed his normal activities and responsibilities as a Supreme Court justice. He has also celebrated some personal milestones and achievements, such as his 30th anniversary on the court in October 2021, and his 75th birthday in June 2023.
Clarence Thomas has also continued to make his voice heard and his presence felt on the court. He has written several opinions and dissents on various cases and issues, such as abortion, gun rights, religious freedom, and free speech. He has also participated in several public events and interviews, such as the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in September 2021, and the University of Notre Dame lecture series in September 2023.
Thomas has also welcomed a new colleague on the court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who was confirmed by the Senate in April 2023. Jackson is the first Black woman to serve on the court, and the third Black justice ever. She replaced Justice Stephen Breyer, who retired in January 2023. Jackson is considered to be a moderate liberal, and has expressed respect and admiration for Thomas.
Thomas has also faced some challenges and difficulties, such as the death of his wife, Virginia Thomas, in November 2023. Virginia Thomas was a prominent conservative activist and lawyer, who had been married to Thomas since 1987. She died of complications from breast cancer at the age of 64. Thomas mourned her loss and thanked the public for their condolences and prayers.
Clarence Thomas is still alive and not dead, despite the death hoax that spread on social media in 2023. He was hospitalized with an infection in March 2022, but he recovered and returned to his duties as a Supreme Court justice. He has remained active and influential on the court, and has also faced some personal and professional challenges and achievements. He is the longest-serving and second-oldest justice on the court, and one of the most controversial and respected figures in American politics and law.
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