FedSoc Hosts Somin and Clark for Debate on Open Immigration

Nov 11 Written by Virginia Law Weekly On November 5, 2026, the Federalist Society hosted a debate on one of the country's most contentious political issues: immigration. Rather than debate where to draw the line, however, the evening's resolution asked whether there should be a line at all. The resolution read: "The United States should remove all restrictions on immigration." Arguing in favor was Visiting Professor Ilya Somin of George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School. Opposing him was Jeff Clark, former Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice's Environment and Natural Resources Division. Rick Eberstadt ’17 moderated the debate. The speakers approached the resolution from different starting points. For Professor Somin, freedom of movement is a fundamental liberty. For Mr. Clark, immigration restrictions are essential to preserving America's culture, sovereignty, and democratic character.

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