Justice Samuel Alito has told people close to him that he does not plan to leave the Supreme Court immediately, even after Democrats’ strong performance in Senate contests, according to two people familiar with his plans who spoke anonymously.
Alito shared his decision after the election results became clear. In an interview published in early October, he had already said he intended to stay through the current term and rejected the idea that he would step down if Democrats took control of the Senate.
The election outcome has prompted speculation that Alito or Justice Clarence Thomas, the court’s two oldest members, might announce a retirement soon. Such a move could have given President Trump a short window to seek Senate approval for a successor during the chamber’s lame-duck session.
With Alito not planning an immediate departure, Republicans may have lost the opportunity to confirm another Supreme Court justice before their time controlling the Senate ends.
Sources: The New York Times Politics.