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Politico·October 7, 2026
Trump's SCOTUS succession dilemma: His favorite justices ...
Recent signals
Alito has sought to quiet retirement rumors in multiple interviews, saying he plans to serve through the current term. The comments followed heightened attention to whether he might leave while Republicans still controlled the confirmation process.
Political stakes
At 76, Alito remains one of the court’s oldest justices, making his eventual departure politically consequential. A vacancy would give Trump a chance to shape the court further, but the timing would depend on Alito’s final decision and Senate control.
Outlook
For now, the most supported near-term expectation is that Alito will remain through June 2027. He has indicated that retirement could be reconsidered afterward, so the possibility has shifted rather than disappeared.