The situation
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is officially sitting this one out. In a brief letter sent Monday, the Supreme Court announced that Alito will no longer participate in a massive climate change case involving energy titans Suncor Energy and Exxon Mobil.
While the court didn't give a specific reason, it’s giving major conflict-of-interest vibes. Alito’s 2025 financial disclosures show he holds stock in oil and gas companies like ConocoPhillips and Phillips 66. Even though he doesn't hold direct stock in the two companies currently being sued, the optics are definitely something.
What’s actually happening in court?
The drama started back in 2018 when the city and county of Boulder, Colorado, sued Exxon and Suncor. Boulder is demanding billions in damages, claiming these companies hyped up fossil fuels while keeping the real dangers on the low. They argue this negligence fueled climate change, leading to everything from insane heatwaves to mega-wildfires and massive property damage.
The energy companies tried to get the case moved to federal court and later tried to have it tossed entirely, but the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that Boulder’s case is allowed to proceed. Now, the U.S. Supreme Court is stepping in to decide if they even have the power to review that decision or if they should block the lawsuit from moving forward in state court.
Why it matters
Real talk: this case is a massive deal. The final ruling won't just affect Boulder; it could set a major precedent for scores of other lawsuits filed by states and cities across the country that are trying to hold fossil-fuel producers accountable for climate-related damages. If Boulder wins big, it could open the floodgates for billions in litigation costs for energy companies. Say less—the energy sector is watching this one very closely.
