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Presidential Summit 2026

by New York State Bar Association

The Presidential Summit 2026 is a premier event organized by the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA), scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City. This summit serves as a focal point of NYSBA's Annual Meeting, bringing together legal professionals to discuss pressing issues affecting the legal community and society at large.

This year's summit features a session titled "The Case for Constitutional Failure," addressing concerns about potential constitutional crises in the United States. The discussion will explore whether the three branches of government have abdicated their fundamental responsibilities, leading to a state of constitutional failure. The session will be moderated by Lawrence O'Donnell, host of 'The Last Word' on MS NOW, and will include insights from Jack Rakove, emeritus professor of history and political science at Stanford University, and Sonia Mittal, former Assistant United States Attorney and Associate Research Scholar in Law at Yale Law School.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with esteemed panelists and fellow legal professionals, fostering meaningful discussions on the state of constitutional governance. The event also offers 2.0 MCLE credits in Areas of Professional Practice, contributing to the continuing education requirements for attorneys.

Legal practitioners, scholars, and students interested in constitutional law and the current challenges facing democratic institutions are encouraged to attend. The summit provides a platform to gain valuable insights, participate in critical discussions, and network with peers committed to upholding the rule of law.

Speakers(3)

Jack Rakove

William R. Coe Professor of History and American Studies, Professor of Political Science, Emeritus at Stanford University

Jack Rakove is a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and emeritus professor at Stanford University, specializing in American history and political science.

Lawrence O'Donnell

Television Anchor, Producer, and Commentator at MSNOW

Lawrence O'Donnell is the host of 'The Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell' on MSNOW, known for his extensive background in politics, entertainment, and news.

Sonia Mittal

Clinical Lecturer in Law and Associate Research Scholar at Yale Law School

Sonia Mittal is a Clinical Lecturer in Law and Associate Research Scholar at Yale Law School, where she co-directs the Peter Gruber Rule of Law Clinic.

Event Details

Date
January 14, 2026
Location
🇺🇸 New York, United States
New York Hilton Midtown, Grand Ballroom West, Third Floor
Pricing
$150 - $395
Audience
Legal practitioners, scholars, and students interested in constitutional law and democratic institutions.
CLE Credits
2.0 MCLE credits in Areas of Professional Practice

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