WATCH: Rubio delivers keynote address at Federalist Society National Lawyers Convention

Economic concerns at the center

Rubio told the conservative audience that household finances, rather than stock-market performance, show whether the economy is healthy. He said many people cannot afford the things they need.

Voters cited economic pain in delivering major losses to Rubio’s Republican Party. Their frustration over higher costs helped Democrats take control of Congress after voters blamed President Donald Trump for tariffs, the Iran war and a campaign promise to lower prices that had not been fulfilled.

Rubio said building prosperity takes years and decades, not just one election cycle. He warned that Americans may fear leaving the next generation worse off, a result he called un-American.

Iran war and rising costs

Rubio defended the war with Iran, saying it was needed to stop the Islamic Republic from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also acknowledged that the unpopular conflict has pushed up gasoline prices and other related costs.

Rubio said addressing difficult issues can bring economic pain, while recognizing that those costs affect Americans. The remarks came as voters’ concerns about the economy featured prominently in the midterm elections.

Criticism of international institutions

Rubio accused other countries and international organizations of invoking international law to limit U.S. actions. He described that approach as the “weaponization of international law.” He criticized the United Nations, the International Criminal Court and what he called the “global elite,” including organizations staffed by international activists and bureaucrats. Rubio argued that they seek to weaken the United States. He also defended Trump administration policies, including deadly strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats in Latin America, the January capture of then-Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and strict immigration measures.

Speech prompts political questions

The address had the tone of a campaign speech, but Rubio has repeatedly declined to say whether he will run for president in 2028. Such a contest could place him against Vice President JD Vance.

Rubio also gave a wide-ranging speech in Greece last month on Western values. That address, like Friday’s, appeared to reflect political ambitions beyond his role as the nation’s top diplomat.