**No vacancy is viewed as likely in 2026.** The two oldest justices, Clarence Thomas (age 78) and Samuel Alito (age 76), have given no public indication of plans to step down, and both have previously signaled intentions to remain through at least the end of 2026. In early August 2026, Alito directly addressed retirement speculation in an interview, stating he is “here for another term.” Other justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Sonia Sotomayor (both 71), are younger with no reported health or departure signals. While earlier 2026 speculation centered on strategic timing ahead of midterms, the absence of confirmed retirements, announcements, or adverse developments has reinforced trader consensus that the court’s current composition will hold for the calendar year.