Report: Ginsburg will remain on Court for ‘as long as possible’

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who recently underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer, would like to serve on the high court “as long as possible,” according to a report.

The Associated Press’ Supreme Court Twitter, @AP_Courtside, tweeted Friday:

RT @azmonsoon75: How long do you estimate Justice Ginsburg will remain on the bench?

AP’s Jesse J. Holland replies: Ginsburg wants to stay as long as possible. She just hired clerks, so likely will remain thru at least 7/2010

Court observers have wondered how long Ginsburg would remain on the bench considering that this is the second time she has contracted cancer. Also, pancreatic cancer is thought to be a very dangerous form of the disease.

The report also calls into question to what extent President Barack Obama will be able to shape the Supreme Court during his presidency. Obama has already appointed Judge Sonia Sotomayor to take the place of retiring Justice David Souter.

It is likely Obama would appoint another liberal Justice in the place of Ginsburg should she step down before his term is up.

On the other hand, presidents have not always been able to predict how justices will rule on cases once they reach the bench. For example, President George H.W. Bush appointed Souter to the Court thinking he would provide conservative rulings. Instead he proved to be a moderate liberal during his tenure.