Powerful Senate Democrat warns of subpoena to Harlan Crow over Justice Clarence Thomas trips

A powerful Senate Democrat has threatened to send a subpoena to conservative megadonor Harlan Crow, who provided luxury travel and engaged in private real estate deals with Clarence Thomas and his family, escalating tension between democrats and Crow over his relationship with the Supreme Court justice.

Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, reacting to the latest letter from Crow's lawyer declining to offer details on his relationship with Thomas, made the suggestion of a subpoena Tuesday.

The Oregon Democrat said he has begun "productive discussions" on next steps to compel answers from Crow, "including by subpoena."

It's the first time Wyden has said specifically that a subpoena is under consideration.

"This is exactly why the Finance Committee is pursuing this matter as part of its broader review of gift and estate tax practices of ultra-high net worth individuals," Wyden said.

Both Wyden, and Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin are investigating the matter.

The Wyden statement was triggered after Crow's attorney, Michael Bopp, told Durbin late Monday that he would meet with staff of that committee to discuss its questions regarding the interactions between his client and Thomas.