The written code of conduct nods at the public pressure the Court is facing, but it can’t do much to change the justices’ behavior.

The Supreme Court is adopting a code of ethics, in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices.

The Supreme Court on Monday adopted its first code of ethics, in the face of sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices, but the code lacks a means of enforcement.

Outraged Republican lawmakers said the unusual attempt to subpoena Harlan Crow and Leonard Leo would not get the 60 votes it needs to pass the full Senate.

Democrats issued the subpoenas over heavy objections from Republicans, who called the subpoenas "an absolute joke."

Senate Democrats are expected on Thursday to vote on authorizing subpoenas to a pair of influential conservatives with ties to the U.S. Supreme Court as part of an ethics inquiry spurred by reports of undisclosed largesse directed to some conservative justices.