Breyer to retire from Supreme Court

According to several sources close to the judge, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer informed President Joe Biden of his decision sometime last week and plans to announce it officially soon. At age 83, the Clinton nominee is the oldest justice on the bench and has served for nearly 30 years. 

What happens next? Biden previously committed to nominate the Supreme Court’s first black woman, and lawmakers are now calling on him to make good on the promise. Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said the committee will “expeditiously” move to confirm whomever the president picks. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., also promised a quick hearing with “all deliberate speed” to usher in Breyer’s replacement. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who previously chaired the judiciary committee, said he does not expect any Republicans to vote for a liberal justice. Breyer has gotten calls to retire for nearly a year. Democratic lawmakers hope for swift confirmation of a liberal justice, possibly before Breyer steps down, in case Republicans gain a majority in the Senate in midterm elections in November.

Dig deeper: Read Esther Eaton and Emily Belz’s report on Breyer’s judicial track record and front-runners for his seat.