Such reversals were once rare. The solicitor general, the Justice Department official whose office represents the United States in the Supreme Court, generally tries to protect its reputation for consistency, credibility and independence. Solicitors ...

Dozens of vacancies could open in the appeals courts that decide on pressing and far-reaching issues, from financial regulations to abortion.

After his election victory, President-elect Trump could appoint more conservative justices to the Supreme Court. There are suggestions from some Democrats that Justice Sonia Sotomayor should retire soon to pave the way for a younger liberal justice.