As speculation heats up surrounding 76-year-old Justice Samuel Alito could go into retirement and that’s prompted discussions President Trump could appoint another justice.
President Trump said he is "prepared" to appoint up to three Supreme Court justices if vacancies arise, signaling he is ready to further reshape the high court.
The President told Fox’s Maria Bartiromo that Alito, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, could retire and that he has a shortlist of nominees in mind, though he did not mention any names.
According to the report, Senator Ted Cruz is being considered. Attorney Dunham Biles says Cruz has an exceptional background for the role. “I think he would be an exceptional justice given his background, acumen, and the fact that he’s such a strong textualist, and originalist. I think he would be a great addition.” Biles said.
Cruz, although honored by the nod, says he would not prefer the role. “To go from the public arena fighting on public policy to essentially being muzzled and only deciding on one case at a time. That’s why I think often once they become a judge they stay a judge- its two different career paths.” He said.
Attorney Biles said he is bias, but would like to see fellow Chicago graduate, 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, Judge Jim Ho, join the US Supreme Court.
Supreme Court Judge Clarence Thomas is 77 years old, but there is no discussion he is considering retirement. Trump hasn’t revealed any names.
"In theory, it's two — you just read the statistics — it could be two, could be three, could be one," Trump said. "I don't know. I'm prepared to do it. But when you mention Alito, he is a great justice." He said.