Even if a replacement isn't nominated and confirmed, it's now a 4-4 tie if Roberts votes with the leftist wing of SCOTUS.

If that happens, it's a deadlock and the Circuit Court ruling will stand. Given how many positions have been filled by Trump in the past 3+ years, Republicans are in a much better position.

Spez, on further thought: I think this may strengthen the conservative wing of SCOTUS, because Roberts won't want a deadlock on a critical decision. He'll find some way to join the conservatives, especially if he doesn't like the Circuit Court's ruling.

Even if a replacement isn't nominated and confirmed, it's now a 4-4 tie if Roberts votes with the leftist wing of SCOTUS.

If that happens, it's a deadlock and the Circuit Court ruling will stand. Given how many positions have been filled by Trump in the past 3+ years, Republicans are in a much better position.