In early 2021, an incident involving an upside-down American flag at Justice Sam Alito’s home was blamed on his wife Martha-Ann amidst a dispute over a neighbor’s anti-Trump sign, according to CNN.
However, the neighbors, Emily and her partner, dispute this explanation, providing text messages and a police call to challenge the Alitos’ account.
According to the Badens, Martha-Ann instigated the conflict, which also involved an alleged instance of spitting at their car near the Alitos’ residence.
Neighbors of Justice Sam Alito displayed signs in their yard with messages critical of Trump and Republicans. The signs, removed due to safety worries, were not specifically aimed at the Alitos.
Although it is unclear whether Martha-Ann noticed the signs, a confrontation supposedly took place as the neighbors parked their car, during which Martha-Ann allegedly gave them a hostile look.
Following this incident, an inverted flag was seen outside the Alitos’ home, staying there for a while as confirmed by neighbors and a photograph acquired by the Times.
Following President Joe Biden’s inauguration, a confrontation occurred between the Alitos and their neighbors. The neighbors reported Martha-Ann running towards their car, yelling unintelligibly, and allegedly spitting at their vehicle.
Martha-Ann later justified the upside-down flag as a distress signal. Subsequent interactions involved Martha-Ann approaching the neighbors, using profanity, and labeling them as “fascists.”
The neighbors responded with criticism, highlighting the harassment they faced over signs. This account contradicts Justice Alito’s assertion that the flag incident was in response to insults directed at his wife.
The Badens contacted the police, recording the conversation as verified by Fairfax County officials.
A recent New York Times article revealed the presence of a flag associated with Jan. 6 insurgents outside the Alitos’ New Jersey beach house in 2023, sparking concerns due to its link with Christian nationalism.
This development has led several senators to urge Justice Alito to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election and the Capitol insurrection, citing ethical concerns and the need to maintain integrity within the Court.
