Justice Samuel Alito said he evaluates whether to retire each year. He is the second-oldest justice on the Supreme Court at 76.
Alito told CBS News he considered stepping down last term but decided against it. His comments come as the November midterms approach.
The justice’s decision could shift the court’s ideological balance if he leaves. A retirement would allow the president to nominate a successor.
Democrats could win control of the Senate in November. That outcome might increase pressure on Alito to step down before a new Senate takes office.
Republicans currently hold a narrow advantage in the chamber. The party that controls the Senate confirms or rejects Supreme Court nominees.
Alito has served on the court since 2006. He authored the majority opinion overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022.
Justices often time retirements to ensure a like-minded president names their replacement. Alito’s annual consideration reflects that political reality.
No vacancy has been announced. Alito remains active on the bench as the court prepares for its new term.
