The thread on "We don;t need passports, we are American" brought forth many interesting scenarios involving right of entry, not just to your own country, but also another country.
It made me think about when does a person enter the U.S.?
- When the immigration officer stamps you in or allows you in without stamping your passport?
- Is it after you have exited customs?
If it is the former, why would you need to show your passport to the customs officer?
What is your status when you are waiting for your luggage by a carousel? Have you already entered the U.S.?