Justice Alito recuses self from climate change case after complaints over his oil and gas holdings

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has recused himself from a major climate change lawsuit involving two energy companies and the city and county of Boulder, Colorado. Alito stepped aside from the case—which could potentially toss out climate suits against oil companies and was set to be heard next week—without providing an explanation, despite having previously participated in the vote to take up the dispute.

The recusion follows weeks of public pressure and complaints regarding Alito's long-held financial interests and investments in the oil and gas sector. The high court is set to decide the high-stakes dispute between the Colorado municipality and energy firms.