Cruz Renounces Canadian Citizenship, Says Story Part of 'Silly Season'

Cruz Renounces Canadian Citizenship, Says Story Part of 'Silly Season'

After it was revealed on Monday that Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) may still be a Canadian citizen because he was born there (to an American mother), Cruz promptly renounced his Canadian citizenship.

On Tuesday, Cruz said the talk surrounding his birth certificate, which he also released this week, and citizenship status was part of “silly season” in an interview with CNN that will air on Sunday. 

The Dallas Morning News reported that Cruz may have dual citizenship since those born in Canada are Canadian citizens, unless their parents are diplomats. 

“Assuming that is true, then sure, I will renounce any Canadian citizenship,” Cruz said in a statement. “Nothing against Canada, but I’m an American by birth and as a U.S. senator; I believe I should be only an American.”

Legal experts believe Cruz, since he was born to an American mother, would qualify as a “natural-born” American who is eligible to run for president.  If Cruz does indeed have dual citizenship, it may take up to eight months to fully renounce it because he must show he is not a security threat and explain in writing why he is renouncing his Canadian citizenship.

COMMENTS

Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.