Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was not present for the court's scheduled cases on Monday, and the court did not offer a reason for his absence.

Why it matters: While it's not unusual for justices to occasionally miss a day's proceedings, the court often provides an explanation for why a justice is absent.

• The Supreme Court did not immediately respond Monday to Axios' request for comment regarding Thomas' absence.

Driving the news: Chief Justice John Roberts announced Thomas' absence Monday and said his colleague would participate in the day's cases through transcripts and briefs, AP reported.

• Thomas did not participate in the proceedings virtually either, as justices occasionally do when they are ill or for other reasons cannot make it to the court, per AP.


• The court is hearing arguments in two cases Monday: Snyder v. United States, a case regarding the federal anti-bribery statute, and Chiaverini v. City of Napoleon, Ohio, a case concerning the fourth amendment.

The big picture: Thomas, 75, is the eldest Supreme Court justice on the current court. He is also its longest-serving member, and has been on the bench since 1991.

• Thomas took part in cases while he was hospitalized two years ago with an infection.


• He came under intense scrutiny last year amid allegations that he failed to properly disclose luxury trips from an influential Republican megadonor and other potential ethics breaches.