Story perspectives

Trump Urges Alito, Thomas to Retire for Conservative Gains

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested Supreme Court Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas retire this year for political advantage, but they reportedly will not.
Trump referenced Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death as a cautionary tale.
Trump said retirement could solidify a conservative majority for decades and warned that losing Senate control could complicate future nominations.
Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley signaled readiness to expedite any nominee ahead of the 2026 elections.

History

Historical Context

Following Justice Antonin Scalia's death in February 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Merrick Garland on March 16 to fill the vacancy. However, Senate Republicans, led by Mitch McConnell, refused to hold hearings, arguing the next president should make the appointment. This unprecedented obstruction left the seat vacant for 293 days, influencing the ideological balance of the Supreme Court for years to come.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested Supreme Court Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas retire this year for political advantage, but they reportedly will not.
Trump referenced Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death as a cautionary tale.
Trump said retirement could solidify a conservative majority for decades and warned that losing Senate control could complicate future nominations.
Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley signaled readiness to expedite any nominee ahead of the 2026 elections.

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