Clarence Thomas Hospitalized With Flu-Like Symptoms

Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Expected to Participate in Cases Remotely

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Clarence Thomas, an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, has been hospitalized with flu-like symptoms.

Thomas, 74, was admitted to Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C., on Sunday evening. A court spokesperson said in a statement that Thomas is "resting comfortably" and is expected to participate in the Court's upcoming cases remotely.

Thomas is the second-longest-serving justice on the Supreme Court, behind only Chief Justice John Roberts. He was nominated to the Court by President George H.W. Bush in 1991 and has served since 1992.

Thomas is known for his conservative views and has often been the deciding vote in closely divided cases. In recent years, he has been a reliable vote for the Court's conservative majority.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to begin its new term on Monday, October 3. It is unclear how long Thomas will be hospitalized, but the Court is expected to proceed with its docket without him.

Thomas's hospitalization comes at a time of great uncertainty for the Supreme Court. The Court is currently considering several major cases, including a challenge to the Affordable Care Act and a case involving the rights of transgender students.

Thomas's absence from the Court could have a significant impact on the outcome of these cases. If he is unable to participate, the Court could be deadlocked 4-4, which would leave the lower court rulings in place.

Thomas's hospitalization is a reminder of the importance of the Supreme Court and the role that individual justices play in shaping the law of the land.