[Non-Sequitur]

What happens if 2 of the SCOTUS justices have to recuse themselves because they were themselves appointed by the defendant in question?

It still takes 4 votes.

Can they be forced to recuse themselves? Can ethics charges be brought up if they refuse?

No and no.

[Helotes]

I saw an interview with Justice Thomas and he mentioned that the court kept finding excuses to avoid hearing and deciding this issue.

Maybe this is the one.....