Marco Rubio Challenges International Law at Federalist Society Convention

Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered the 25th annual Barbara K. Olson Memorial Lecture at the Federalist Society's National Lawyers Convention in Washington on November 14, 2026. In the address, titled "Enemies in War, in Peace Friends," Rubio characterized international law as an instrument used by a global elite and soulless bureaucrats to advance their own interests under the pretense of universal principles.

Rubio specifically targeted the International Criminal Court, describing it as a fake court and warning against the enforcement of its rulings against U.S. citizens. He argued that such international legal frameworks are weaponized to restrict the ability of the United States to act as a sovereign nation. This rhetoric aligns with the broader Trump administration policy of opposing the court's authority.

Speaking for the first time since significant Republican losses in the midterm elections, Rubio urged conservatives to maintain a long-term perspective, stating that great things are built over decades rather than election cycles. During the event, which was themed around 250 years of American exceptionalism, Rubio also discussed U.S. operations against Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela and the necessity of a war with Iran.

While Rubio denied rumors of his resignation and previously stated he would not run against Vice President JD Vance, his performance sparked speculation among attendees regarding a potential 2028 presidential bid. He was introduced at the lecture by his daughter, Daniella Rubio, a law student at the University of Virginia.