The Supreme Court doesn't have any vacancies, but Republicans are keeping a close eye on Justices Alito and Thomas for potential retirements in Trump's second term.

Republicans have argued that it would be wise for Alito, who was appointed by President George W. Bush in 2006, and Justice Clarence Thomas, who is 76 and was appointed by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, to resign in favor of younger candidates who could continue the court’s conservative stance for many years to come.

Some liberals called for Justice Sonia Sotomayor to retire before Donald Trump returns to the White House. But Democrats would struggle to confirm a replacement.

Former President Donald Trump’s return to power is setting off a flurry of speculation and interparty bickering about potential retirements on the Supreme Court, underscoring how even a single departure by one of the nine justices can shape the law for generations.

The eldest of the Supreme Court's liberal judges has no plans to resign, despite calls to allow Democrats to make an appointment ahead of Trump's inauguration.