Supreme Court Justice Souter to Retire

Supreme Court Justice David Souter intends to retire, according to published reports.

Souter's decision would allow for President Barack Obama's first appointment to the Supreme Court.

The Obama administration hasn't publicly named any choices to fill the vacancy on the high court. The president is likely to choose a woman, the Wall Street Journal reports.

The news was first reported by National Public Radio.

Justice Souter, appointed by a Republican president, George Bush, became one of the most reliable members of the court's liberal wing, the New York Times notes. But he has grown increasingly sour on Washington and intends to return to his home state, New Hampshire, the Times adds, citing people briefed on his plans.

The White House and Souter wouldn't comment on the reports. One official said the decision might be announced as early as Friday, the Times reports.

The Times reports Elena Kagan, Obama's solicitor general, is among the names that have been floated in recent months as possible Supreme Court nominees.

The Journal said possible candidates could include Kathleen Sullivan, a professor and former dean of Stanford Law School; Georgia Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears, and U.S. Circuit Judge Sonia Sotomayor..