Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito Fell Ill Last Month

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito became ill during a Federalist Society dinner in Philadelphia on March 20, according to a spokesperson from the high court. Justice Alito, who turned 76 this week, was evaluated by a physician and received fluids for dehydration before returning home to Virginia later that night as originally planned.

The incident, which was not previously reported, occurred after a symposium at the University of Pennsylvania law school in honor of Justice Alito’s jurisprudence. He was not scheduled to speak at the event and did not appear at the day-long symposium, but he attended the dinner held afterward. Out of caution, his security detail recommended a medical evaluation before the three-hour drive home. Supreme Court spokesperson Patricia McCabe stated, "Justice Alito was thoroughly checked by his own physician, and he returned to work the following Monday for oral argument."

In the weeks since the incident, Justice Alito has attended Supreme Court sessions and appeared healthy during oral arguments.

Justice Alito is currently the second oldest member of the court, following Justice Clarence Thomas. The health and possible retirement of justices have received increased attention due to the potential for President Donald Trump to appoint another justice, which would further shape the balance of the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court typically does not disclose details about justices' health unless necessary, and Justice Alito declined to comment when approached about his recent illness. For now, he continues his duties on the bench, and there are no official announcements regarding his future plans.