Yes.  I don't like it... but the Supreme Court is  not  untouchable.  Even Scalia, though we may prefer his politics over RBG, might have had some sexual proclivities that rendered him vulnerable.  RBG...well she is already a radical ideolgue. Any person is subject to intimidation or blackmail; most people have weaknesses. I do not think the Supremes are rampantly corrupt.  But let us look at Roberts, Chief Justice.   Let us suppose there is something in his background that gives a LITTLE bit of leverage. The pressure can be very gentle. Suppose he has a FISC judge to appoint, and six candidates who are reasonably qualified. He might be steered to selecting candidate W over candidates A,B,C,D, and E, which candidate W is more in the pocket, vulnerable,   or ideologically amenable to certain parties.  "Justice Roberts. We strongly recommend you consider candidate W over the others.  It is an important decision, we understand, and it is VERY IMPORTANT  that you pick the very best candidate.  Of course we know you will make the best choice FOR EVERYONE.  So please give Judge W your consideration.  Thank you.  " Then years later, you can lean on Judge W to be a little lenient on a FISC application you need in the worst way.  It was only a little corruption in the beginning. Judge W was qualified.   But somebody had something on him. Everybody's human.   On the other side..suppose Roberts is squeaky clean, with no grip-hold for blackmail.   Nothing on him....but what about his kids, his family, his friends ? And even if there is nothing there either...do you think they believe the crap about Scalia ?