Recent statements from Justice Samuel Alito, the second-oldest member of the Court at 76, have reinforced expectations of continuity. Alito has publicly indicated he decided months ago to remain through the current term ending in mid-2027 and sees no immediate need to step down, even amid Senate control uncertainty after the November midterms. Clarence Thomas, 78, has shown no signs of retirement plans, while younger justices have not signaled departures. With no reported health developments or official announcements creating openings, traders view a 2026 vacancy—whether from retirement, resignation, or other causes—as improbable absent unforeseen events. This consensus aligns with historical patterns where scheduled retirements cluster around term ends rather than mid-year.