Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, 76, acknowledged in a recent interview that he contemplates retirement annually but has chosen to remain on the bench for now, believing he continues to make a meaningful impact. Speaking with CBS News, Alito characterized the decision to retire as a recurring, natural consideration that comes with age. As the court’s second-oldest justice, his future tenure has attracted attention amid political shifts and upcoming elections.

Alito’s remarks come amid speculation fueled by his age and conservative leanings, particularly given his alignment with former President Donald Trump, who appointed him during his first term. With the midterm elections approaching, questions have intensified about whether Alito might step down to allow for a potential new appointment that could further shape the court’s ideological balance. Democrats’ efforts to regain Senate control add complexity to this dynamic, as confirmation processes hinge on the political makeup of the Senate.

“It’s too hard to predict how, for anybody, particularly when you reach a certain age, what your situation will be a year from now, two years from now, and so forth,” Alito said. He also noted the unpredictability of political circumstances and presidential decisions concerning court appointments. “I would have to think about it every year,” he added.

The interview underscored the possibility that Trump, who currently holds a significant influence over the court’s conservative majority, could have the opportunity to nominate additional justices before leaving office. Among the justices, Clarence Thomas, at 78, is the oldest and has indicated his intent to serve for many more years, potentially becoming the longest-serving justice in history if he remains through 2028.

Speculation regarding Alito’s status escalated in June when National Public Radio reported inaccurately that he would be retiring, a story that NPR subsequently retracted and apologized for. Insiders close to the justice confirmed his intention to return for the new court term, emphasizing his vital role in advancing conservative judicial priorities and his trusted standing with Chief Justice John Roberts. Alito, who authored the pivotal 2022 opinion overturning the constitutional right to abortion, remains a key figure on the court.

Political observers note that if Democrats secure Senate control following the midterms, there could be increased pressure on Alito to retire before the new Congress convenes, facilitating the potential confirmation of a conservative successor nominated by Trump. However, Alito declined to frame his decision in political terms during the interview, focusing instead on his commitment to his judicial responsibilities.

Alito’s comments coincided with the upcoming release of his book, “So Ordered: An Originalist’s View of the Constitution, the Court and Our Country,” in which he explores his judicial philosophy and views on constitutional interpretation.