The 2024 Federalist Society National Bar Convention has concluded. I’ve already written about the venue being changed from the Mayflower to the Washington Hilton. But even bigger changes are on the horizon. For the past 40 years, Jean Meyer has served as president of the association. In fact, he was the first employee hired by Steve Calabresi, Lee Liberman Ortiz, and David McIntosh. All the while, FedSoc has thrived in ways unimaginable in the early 1980s. The association’s impact on the law, courts, academy, and our society is difficult to quantify. This will be the last national championship with Gene Meyer at the helm. Gene announced that he plans to resign. My understanding is that the search for his successor is nearing an end.
After the tournament, steve sax is amazing Bork lectureSteve Calabresi, Chris Demas and Richard Epstein pay tribute to Jean Meyer. The memorial video has not been posted online, but we hope it will be released soon. All three tributes were very moving. The ballroom turned out to be very moving.
Steve compared Jean to Queen Elizabeth II. Both have led organizations for decades without making mistakes. Both have adopted approaches to governance and stuck to their plans through very difficult and testing times. Steve also explained that Gene demonstrated all the attributes of the ancient virtues, but none of the seven sins. Despite being at the center of power and money for decades, Gene never succumbed to any scandals or tried to enrich himself, remaining true to his principles.
Richard spoke from notes, which he admitted did not exist. Richard compared Gene to Ed Sullivan, a comparison that probably made no sense to most people present. Sullivan was the host of the popular variety show for more than 20 years. He was always the host, but the star was the guest. Gene is always humble, so he fits the bill perfectly. Richard also explained Gene’s method. FedSoc would essentially be a discussion society. In order to create a debating society, we need people who are willing to debate. You should invite people who disagree with your views to such discussions. But at the same time, the tent should not be so large that it becomes useless. FedSoc adheres to some basic principles that most conservatives and liberals can agree on. However, the group welcomes discussion inside and outside the tent.
At the end of the ceremony, Gene was presented with a bust of James Madison. The standing ovation was deep. Gene touched every life in the room. After the event, I thanked Gene. Without him, I wouldn’t be here now.
This is truly the end of an era. And the selection of the next president will likely have a major impact on the future of the association for decades to come.
