Trump praises Alito as justice considers retirement before 2027 term

Donald Trump publicly praised Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito while sharing a report that Alito is considering retirement. The remarks could be read as pressure on the 76-year-old justice to leave the court, amid speculation over whether Trump might get another opportunity to appoint a justice.

Alito, appointed by George W. Bush, said he had considered retiring this year and would think about it again before the 2027 term. He said he believes he can still contribute and that his plans are not tied to politics. Trump has criticised his own appointees Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett for rulings against his administration, and has said he is prepared to nominate up to three justices if vacancies arise.