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Clarence Thomas Says Alito Called Him “Scary” at Yale

8/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Justice Clarence Thomas appeared on Senator Ted Cruz’s “Verdict with Ted Cruz” podcast, aired Wednesday.
Thomas said Justice Samuel Alito once called him “scary,” explaining their lack of friendship at Yale.
Alito recalled wearing bib overalls and combat boots at Yale, noting phones would have captured many pictures.
Cruz praised Thomas as an extraordinary thinker who overcame adversity to reach the Supreme Court.

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Story summary

Justice Clarence Thomas appeared on Senator Ted Cruz’s “Verdict with Ted Cruz” podcast, aired Wednesday.
Thomas said Justice Samuel Alito once called him “scary,” explaining their lack of friendship at Yale.
Alito recalled wearing bib overalls and combat boots at Yale, noting phones would have captured many pictures.
Cruz praised Thomas as an extraordinary thinker who overcame adversity to reach the Supreme Court.