Speculation over Justice Samuel Alito's potential retirement from the Supreme Court has intensified following New York Times reporting on April 11 that sources close to the 76-year-old justice indicate he is considering stepping down amid President Trump's second term, potentially allowing a fourth conservative appointment to maintain the 6-3 majority. Senate Republicans have signaled readiness for swift confirmation hearings before the November 2026 midterms, with leaders like Chuck Grassley floating replacement nominees. No official announcement or public statement from Alito has emerged, despite his recent milestones of 20 years on the bench and turning 76. The Court's term ends in late June, after which retirements often occur; trader sentiment hinges on strategic timing versus health or institutional factors, with historical patterns showing justices rarely retire mid-term absent pressing reasons.