Summary
There is speculation about whether Justice Clarence Thomas will retire from the U.S. Supreme Court during President Trump's term. Thomas, the oldest justice, is under scrutiny due to ethics controversies, but he has not indicated plans to retire soon. If he resigns, President Trump would have the opportunity to nominate a replacement, potentially Senator Ted Cruz.
Key Facts
- Justice Clarence Thomas is the oldest member of the U.S. Supreme Court.
- President Trump mentioned Senator Ted Cruz as a possible nominee for the Supreme Court.
- Justices typically retire in their late 70s to early 80s.
- Thomas has faced pressure to retire but has shown no public intention to do so.
- When Trump started his second term, there was a 67% chance Thomas might resign; it has decreased to 40%.
- President Trump opposes the idea of Thomas resigning.
- If Republicans maintain their Senate majority, Trump's nominee would need a simple majority to be confirmed.
- Senator Cruz is 55, and if chosen, could serve a long term, strengthening the court's conservative leaning.
