Democrats Consider Pushing Sotomayor to Resign

Democrats are engaged in serious discussions about persuading Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to resign, allowing President Joe Biden to nominate a replacement before Donald Trump takes office. The urgency stems from concerns that Trump could appoint more conservative justices, potentially leading to a 7-2 conservative majority on the Supreme Court. Sotomayor, who is 70 years old and has health issues related to her diabetes, has become a focal point in these discussions, with some party members recalling the regret over Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's decision not to retire during the Obama administration. However, the plan to push for her resignation faces significant challenges, including the potential backlash and the lack of senators willing to publicly advocate for it. Possible replacements being considered include D.C. Circuit Judge J. Michelle Childs, who has previously been vetted and supported by some Republicans. With a narrow window to act before the new Congress is seated, Democrats are weighing the risks and benefits of this strategy.