Recent statements from the two oldest justices have reinforced trader expectations of stability on the Supreme Court through the end of 2026. Justice Samuel Alito, 76, told interviewers in early October that he intends to serve through the current term ending in June 2027, a decision reached months earlier, while Justice Clarence Thomas, 78, has shown no public signs of stepping down. With no retirement announcements, health-related departures, or other vacancies among the remaining seven members, the market prices the low probability of an opening before January 2027. Midterm Senate results could intensify future pressure, but they fall outside the 2026 resolution window.