Supreme Court Justice Alito Planned to Stay for Current Term

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito is not planning to retire this term, and he has already hired all four law clerks for the next annual term, according to various sources. This comes despite speculation surrounding his potential retirement.

One insider informed Fox News Digital that Alito “will not resign this term and is preparing to hire the remaining office staff for next term.” Other sources reiterated that Alito will remain on the bench for his current term, which extends until October when the Supreme Court’s new year begins.

Judges generally hire clerks two to three years in advance, but the act of doing so does not necessarily indicate any intentions regarding retirement.

These statements about Alito’s plans appear amid comments from former President Donald Trump, who mentioned he is “ready” to appoint replacements for up to three Supreme Court justices if openings arise. While Trump mentioned having candidates in mind, he didn’t disclose any names.

Trump commented on Alito’s situation, stating, “Theoretically it’s 2 or 3.” He indicated he thought Alito, a justice who has often aligned with him on key cases, is in “very good health,” referring to him as “one of the great judges of our time.” He added, “Judge Alito is an incredible judge.”

There has been ongoing speculation about Alito’s retirement, primarily due to his age—76—and his long tenure since being nominated by George W. Bush in 2005. Some believe he might wish to ensure that a conservative replaces him before the upcoming midterm elections.

The rumors intensified after news broke that Alito fell ill at a recent dinner, linked to dehydration. According to a court spokesperson, he underwent “thorough examination” and returned to work promptly.

Interestingly, Justice Clarence Thomas, who is older at 77, has faced less speculation regarding his retirement, even though he has served for over three decades and holds the second-longest tenure in history.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) recently expressed that he would suggest Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) or Mike Lee (R-Utah) if Alito were to step down. Grassley emphasized his hope that Alito would not resign but noted the committee’s preparedness to select a candidate should the situation arise.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, also a Republican, mentioned a Republican majority would be ready to fill any Supreme Court vacancy immediately. “It’s a contingency you always have to be prepared for,” he said.