AP Exclusive: NM gov.'s grandfather was US citizen

By: BARRY MASSEY | Associated Press
Published: April 27, 2012

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) Ever since taking office last year, New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez has found her family tree scrutinized over whether her grandfather was an illegal immigrant.

Immigration documents obtained by The Associated Press, however, reveal a fact not even the nation's first Hispanic female governor herself knew.
Her Mexican-born grandfather was lawfully admitted to the U.S. as a permanent resident and later became a citizen in 1942.
Martinez was surprised to learn about the citizenship, but maintained that his status, citizen or not, didn't affect her political views. She says: "I embrace lawful immigration."


Some in political circles said the questions could have emerged as a trouble spot for an otherwise potentially attractive vice presidential pick for Mitt Romney.

source: AP Exclusive: NM gov.'s grandfather was US citizen | WSAV TV