Liberals Begin Nudging Aging Supreme Court Justice Out: Report

Liberal voices are openly advocating for the retirement of 69-year old Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to pave the way for a younger Democratic appointee before the next election.

The primary concern is preventing a potential 7-2 conservative majority, especially if former President Donald Trump returns to the White House in 2024.

Several liberal columnists argue that enabling President Joe Biden to appoint a younger justice now is crucial to preemptively counterbalance the court, according to The Daily Caller. 

Reflecting on recent history, the urgency for strategic retirements has gained prominence. The events surrounding the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death and the subsequent confirmation of Justice Amy Coney Barrett along party lines serve as a cautionary tale for Democrats.

The spotlight is now on Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who is set to turn 70 in June. If she retires this year, Democrats could secure a younger and reliably liberal replacement without facing Senate obstacles.

The absence of Republican control over the Senate floor eliminates the possibility of delaying the appointment, as witnessed during the confirmation of Justice Amy Coney Barrett.

While Sotomayor has hinted at feeling “tired” due to the demanding caseload, the decision to retire remains crucial in securing the liberal stronghold on the Supreme Court. If Democrats lose the bet and fail to retain the presidency or Senate in the upcoming elections, Sotomayor might have to remain on the court until the party regains control—a process that historically has taken several years.

Republican-turned-Democrat writer Josh Borro emphasized the stakes, stating, “If this is how the Democratic Party operates, it deserves to lose.”

The potential consequences of not retiring this year loom large, as a conservative majority on the court could solidify within the next decade. Democrats are urged to consider the long-term implications and prioritize the strategic defense of their seats.

Despite whispers within Democratic circles about Sotomayor’s retirement, a reluctance to publicly advocate for it is evident. Politico reported in January that some Democrats close to the Biden administration supported the idea but refrained from going on the record, citing concerns of appearing gauche or insensitive.

As the debate continues, the Democratic Party faces a critical decision: prioritize the long-term balance of the Supreme Court or maintain the status quo and risk potential setbacks for liberal causes.

Scroll down to leave a comment and share your thoughts.