Former Vice President Kamala Harris has expressed concerns about President Donald Trump potentially appointing two new justices to the Supreme Court, emphasizing that Democrats need to fully understand the implications involved.
In a tweet, Harris, who faced Trump in the 2024 presidential election, mentioned an article from the New York Times regarding “liberal groups” preparing to spend millions to counter Trump’s potential Supreme Court nominees ahead of time.
According to Demand Justice President Josh Orton, this initiative is expected to kick off with a $3 million budget, potentially rising to $15 million if any vacancies arise.
Josh Orton stated that the campaign’s initial cost would be about $3 million, with another $15 million needed if Trump fills a vacancy—likely for either Clarence Thomas or Samuel Alito, who are the oldest justices on the bench. Justice Thomas is currently 77 years old, while Justice Alito is 76.
If Democrats take the Senate majority in the upcoming November elections (which would necessitate flipping at least four seats currently held by Republicans), Trump may have a good chance of confirming a nominee before his term ends. Should a Democrat follow him as president, both Justices Thomas and Alito would be in their 80s by the time a Republican nominee could appoint a successor.
“It is crucial to recognize what’s at stake regarding the Supreme Court right now,” Harris asserted. “Donald Trump should not be allowed to appoint one, let alone two, new justices. We must inhibit the nation’s highest court from becoming even more aligned with Trump’s influence.”
Harris’ comments surfaced after reports indicated that Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito experienced health issues and was hospitalized following an event on March 20, according to unnamed “sources,” as noted by CNN.
“On March 20th, Justice Alito felt unwell during an event in Philadelphia,” stated Supreme Court spokesperson Patricia McCabe. “Out of caution, he chose to see a doctor after a security guard recommended it before embarking on a three-hour drive home. Following tests and hydration for dehydration, he returned home that same evening as scheduled.”
