Secretary John Roberts stated on Wednesday that he is not contemplating retirement. However, he has asked two close friends to evaluate whether his health is declining.
During a talk in Buffalo, New York, he mentioned, “I spoke with them and said that I want to know when the right time is—since you don’t always notice when you’re slipping. I want you to tell me if it’s time for me to step down.” After a lengthy pause, they concluded it was time to go. Roberts reassured them, saying, “It’s okay, don’t worry.”
At 70, Roberts humorously remarked, “I’ll leave my legs first,” indicating that he has no immediate plans to resign.
“I believe if you come to realize that your health is diminishing and becoming a burden on the court, rather than supporting it, then it’s time to go,” he added.
His remarks were made during a casual chat celebrating the 125th anniversary of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, amid rising concerns about age in all branches of government.
President Biden faces questions regarding his age as he campaigns for a second term. Senator Mitch McConnell has drawn attention for appearing to freeze during press interactions, raising health concerns. Additionally, a 97-year-old federal judge in the capital is engaged in disputes with colleagues over her mental fitness. Similar scrutiny applies to other lawmakers as well.
Roberts expressed that the Supreme Court does not view age as a significant issue, suggesting it’s merely “a matter of time.”
“I don’t foresee it being a problem because when someone stays longer than they should, it often doesn’t end well for the team,” he remarked.
He emphasized feeling “very healthy” and noted he has served on the Supreme Court for nearly 20 years, with colleagues younger than him.
Speculation surrounding retirement has mostly focused on Justices Thomas and Alito, though neither has indicated any intent to retire soon.
Roberts also spent time reminiscing about his upbringing in Buffalo, sharing that he visited his childhood home before the event.
When asked about his recent interactions with Judge Berch regarding opposition to Trump administration policies, he highlighted the responsibilities of his role, saying, “Arms each is not a way to register disagreements in decision-making.”
