January 26, 2009
Posted: January 26th, 2009 02:47 PM ET

From

WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Barack Obama's Kenyan aunt is in the United States legally, at least for the time being, CNN has learned.

Just days before the November election it was reported that Zeituni Onyango, the half-sister of Mr. Obama's late father, was living in Boston despite a deportation order issued four years earlier when her asylum request was denied.

A spokesman for the Executive Office of Immigration Review tells CNN, however, that a motion to reopen Onyango's case was granted on December 17th, and on December 30th a stay was placed on the order to remove her. According to the spokesman, she is scheduled to have a new hearing in front of a Boston immigration court on April 1.

"While she is in proceedings she can stay in the country," says Margaret Wong, the attorney representing Onyango. Wong said her client had not received any special treatment in the immigration system. But being the President's aunt has its perks. Wong says that Onyango had tickets to attend her nephew's swearing in last week, and attended at least one inaugural ball.

Filed under: President Obama


Carmelita   January 26th, 2009 8:08 pm ET

HELLO ALL,

THE LAST TIME I CHECKED, UNLESS YOU ARE A NATIVE AMERICAN, YOU ARE ALL ILLEGALLY IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

WHAT IS THE BIG DEAL, WHERE IS SHE GOING TO GO WHILE THEY REVIEW HER CASE. ARE YOU GUYS WHO ARE OFFENDED THAT SHE IS HERE GOING TO PAY FOR HER RETURN TRIP.

IT APPEARS THAT SHE IS AN ELEDERLY WOMAN, WHO HAS NOT TROUBLED ANYONE, NO ONE KNEW SHE WAS HERE UNTIL THE NEWS MEDIA DUG HER UP FOR SOME LAST MINUTE EXCITEMENT DURING THE CAMPAGIN.

PLEASE LEAVE HER ALONE AND LET THE PROCESS TAKE IT'S COURSE. IF SHE IS THEN DEPORTED THEN I AM SURE SHE WILL GO. THERE ARE SO MANY ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN AMERICA, PLEASE GO FIND THEM, ESPECIALLY IF THEY ARE INCITING CONFLICT.

REMEMBER, THAT YOUR FOREPARENTS ALL CAME FROM SOMEWHERE, SO CHILL ALREADY.

PEACE
CARMELITA

jamaal   January 26th, 2009 7:46 pm ET

Cue the music from the TV show, "The Jeffersons."

Old Auntie is going from near homeless with a deportation order against her to Mistress of the Inaugurals in less than 3 months!! Now that's progress!! Soon, she can move from the slum public housing she's been wallowing in for so long. Then the Black House will have the Pres-o-dent, his babys' momma, she momma, and now he auntie!!

Turnabout is Fair Play   January 26th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

Terry, Lakeland Florida January 26th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

Reality Check> I think you need one. Your president was born in Hawaii.
———————————————-
How do you know? Obama refused to show proof even after his grandparents said he wasn't born there.
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Okay idiot Terry, just like Reality Check, you missed the point, even if Obama was born in a submarine under the Arctic Circle, he is STILL an American citizen because his birth mother was an American woman from Kansas. Are you COMPREHENDING YET? God, it's amazing some of you ignorant retards made it to adulthood.

Jim   January 26th, 2009 7:42 pm ET

Get her out. And get the rest out too.

Eric Jones   January 26th, 2009 7:31 pm ET

She is the President's Aunt and I understand she is here illegal however she is the President's Aunt.. Bush daughter had problems with the law for drinking issues or something of the sort, im sure she didnt receive what a regular girl would have because her father was the President... Unfortunately being a family member of a man with power has privileges. Im not saying its right but it comes with the territory...
I strongly feel that if any one of us was in those shoes our Aunt wouldnt be going anywhere but to the other room to visit our spouse and children and enjoying the benefits... If she gets deported I would feel like the President failed his family... He's looking out for every other American and some non Americans, the least he can do is make it happen for his Aunt... He's in a no win situation! So make your elderly Aunt Happy Mr. President!!.. Everything else with the law is Case by Case basis..

gigi   January 26th, 2009 7:27 pm ET

get over it! there are so many people in the U.S. illegally, so why focus on President Obama's aunt just because he became President. White presidents have gotten away with murder, but you guys just sweep it under the rug. The people that are in the U.S. illegally should be handled on perhaps a state level anyway. There are bigger issues to deal with than just this one person who happens to be President Obama's aunt. For instance, Bush waltzing around for eight years and leaving folks jobless, homeless and hopeless and running back to Texas to live the life of prosperity. Don't hate; President Obama is the Commander in Chief and you guys can't stand it; but you're gonna have to - it is what it is –Yes it is!

Penny from California   January 26th, 2009 7:14 pm ET

Put her on a plane, and send her back home where she belongs. I am personally sick and tired of supporting illegals.

out ya go!!   January 26th, 2009 7:11 pm ET

Yes, this woman has bothered other people!!!!!!!!! We are paying for yet another person to be on welfare and taking housing that another undeserving weldfare person should get.. I don't know about the rest of you, but I give enough of my hard earned money for enough legals to live on...and if you think B.O. did not know his aunt was living here, your full of crap or very gullible. He is just another crook in president clothing...He got voted in on color.. I did not vote for him and I am white, and get called racist just because I did not vote for him. I did not vote for him because of his experience, and definately because he is a baby killer, who believes in late term abortion. BTW, I was a stay at home mom, who made sure her kids were raised with great family values that I instilled...Briana, you act like thats a bad thing? YOUR IGNORANT...It means when I had kids, I WANTED them to raise not for babysitter next door to..If you are financially set this is a great thing to do for your children....Oh also, I could be like Michelle Obama and write a report how I hate the U.S.A. and have only been proud of it ONCE, and whine and cry about this country....Again, I did not vote out of racism..If McCain were black and Obama was all the way white, I would have still voted McCain. Knock off all the racist crap and get over it. Seems all that holler racism is racist themselves!!!

Caligirl   January 26th, 2009 7:10 pm ET

Worried in MO January 26th, 2009 5:07 pm ET

He is President; not because I voted for him. I cried at the inauguration, and had a strong feeling of impending doom. I still cry. As far as allowing his auntie to come in, she should be with her family, but not illegally. She needs to follow the due process of law just like anyone else. Obama is changing laws and rules to satisfy his own wants. I pray for God's will to be done, and God did allow this guy to become President. God has turned his face from the United States as a whole because we are not following his will. Our country allows abortion, gay marriages, and most people are all about meeeeeeeeeeee!
_______________________________________________________

So Worried in MO,

What you are saying is that Obama was elected because God has turned his face from the US?

That is an awful thing to say.

Elsa   January 26th, 2009 7:01 pm ET

I have pity for YOU : the haters

Fred C Dobbs   January 26th, 2009 6:57 pm ET

The primaries and the general elections are over.

Let the games begin – auntie should have been thrown out on her backside long ago.

BO does not equal change only more of the same. What did you expect, he is half white or can that be said on a CNN web site.

Caligirl   January 26th, 2009 6:56 pm ET

Worried in MO January 26th, 2009 4:20 pm ET

Well, I know all you folks out there who voted this guy into office because he is the same color as you are would say it is ok to break the law, and let an illegal immigrant off the hook. Just wait and see, this country is in for a big disappointment when reality checks in.
____________________________________________________

Careful there my dear, that savors a bit on the racist side.

Tonya   January 26th, 2009 6:54 pm ET

I have met alot of illegal people and they are nicer than some of the people that was born and raised in the United States, when she get her citizenship you people will still have something to say, get a life

Karen   January 26th, 2009 6:51 pm ET

So much for Obama's integrity and moral code. Guess he had those values when he needed them in the election. Poof...all gone now. What a surprise.

chuck   January 26th, 2009 6:49 pm ET

Illegals are perfectionists at playing the system. The system is a poor excuse for a system. We coddle the illegals, deliver their many babies for free, call the babies U.S. citizens, tax the he_ _ out of legal citizens to pay for the education of the new child while they hang the flag of their old country above their sofas and blare the music of their indigenous country in their cars at four way stops for all to hear. Did I mention food stamps?

oz   January 26th, 2009 6:39 pm ET

does not our law say no-one is above the law.

Caligirl   January 26th, 2009 6:38 pm ET

RealityCheck January 26th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

What is wrong with this picture?????? Let's ask her if she was present for his birth in Kenya?
______________________________________________________

You know da.mn well Obama was born in the US.

Matt   January 26th, 2009 6:37 pm ET

IDA/TENNESSEE: please get your facts right... No Kenyan athletes train in the US especially due to the temperate climate. The reason they are good is because they train in High altitude training camps in Kenya which is a tropical country hence year round training. So many foreign athletes (Yes including Americans) train for long distance races in Kenya so stop dragging irrelevant issues into Obama's aunt discussion..

THE OLD TIMER   January 26th, 2009 6:36 pm ET

my how fast you can move to make something right....IS THIS WHAT HAPPENED TO YOUR BIRTH CERTIFICATE.

Caligirl   January 26th, 2009 6:33 pm ET

Right Wing outrage on...1..2..3

Jason   January 26th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

WHY...............................Can't we All get along!!!! O wait we can't we're still Clinging to our Guns !!!!!!!!!!!!

john   January 26th, 2009 6:28 pm ET

From the level of intelligence of some Americans here; based on thier postings.. I'm think America has one of the largest pool of illitrators (wink wink).

M. S Redmond WA   January 26th, 2009 6:27 pm ET

I HOPE WITH ALL MY HEART THAT HER NEPHEW BARACK OBAMA
HELPS HER STAY IN THE US. I KNOW THAT HE WILL FOLLOW PROPER PROCEDURE, BUT SHE NEEDS HELP IN STAYING IN THE US.

SHE IS NOT AN ILLEGAL ALIEN, SHE JUST NEEDS PERMANENT RESIDENCY I BELIEVE. OBAMA IS THE BEST PRESIDENT EVER.
THANK YOU GOD!

Not Worried in MO   January 26th, 2009 6:26 pm ET

@Worried in MO:

Either I know who you are, or there is someone who sent an almost identical rant to the Springfield News-Leader.
He is President, and I voted for him. I cried at the inauguration, because had a strong feeling of hope. I am a white, Christian man, and I also I pray for God's will to be done. God has turned his face to the United States now with Obama, because "W" was not following his will. W used the name of God to wage war. Talk about bearing false witness!

Our country is finally becoming the inclusive country of immigrants our founders imagined, and this is a time to celebrate how far we have come as a nation. We are now moving toward a country of "us" and away from a country of "ME".

Even your fellow Republican representatives celebrated the inauguration. Why do you continue to be so bitter?

Proud American   January 26th, 2009 6:25 pm ET

Hey Republicans there are far more serious issues facing this nation , than a elderly old lady who isn't a threat to you or anyone else. Do the country a favor and find something more constructive to do with your time. Fact is you lost and can't get over it, move on losers.

Linda in MS   January 26th, 2009 6:24 pm ET

To all of the hateful people out there, I just hope all of the stuff in your Bible about judgement day is true. It's just too bad you have to wait until you die for all your hate to catch up with you.

Robert   January 26th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

She is illegal! Get her out of here for breaking the law!!!!!!!!!!! Obama is a liar and manipulator.

Erika, KS   January 26th, 2009 6:21 pm ET

What strings were pulled to make this happen? Oh, let's just let Obama do whatever he wants, no questions asked. You followers are fools.

Not Worried in MO   January 26th, 2009 6:21 pm ET

@Worried in MO:

Either I know who you are, or there is someone who sent an almost identical rant to the Springfield News-Leader.

He is President, because I voted for him. I cried at the inauguration, beacuse had a strong feeling of hope. I am a white, Christian man, and I also I pray for God's will to be done. God has turned his face to the United States now, because "W" was not following his will. W used the name of God to wage war. Talk about bearing false witness! Our country is finally becoming the inclusive country of immigrants our founders imagined, and this is a time to celebrate how far we have come as a nation. We are now moving toward a country of "us" and away dfrom a country of "ME".

Even your fellow Republican representatives celebrated the inauguration. Why do you continue to be so bitter?

From PA   January 26th, 2009 6:16 pm ET

Obama is not the "typical" politician...just more corrupt

greg   January 26th, 2009 6:15 pm ET

can my mama , aunt sister 3rd cousin,, sis in law , fatherinlaw. mother in law great grand mother,, 1st cousin her kids,,, and there family come also

greg   January 26th, 2009 6:08 pm ET

never i say never,, say ,, anything bad about our new leader,,, he is wise,,, he is our ,,, never ,, under my breath,, find some place to hide,,, take family ,, hide, for one year,,, think,, germany,, 1930 – 1945 ,,, let the detox of america begin

Northofnorth   January 26th, 2009 6:07 pm ET

Since when are we responsible for all our off relation ?
Have we ever saw the equal of things to blame someone?
If you hardly knew your Father and he resided out of country and President Obama had not been to that country untill older and only once how likely would it be you even know or are close to your Fathers HALF /sister ?
I lived 5 miles from Grandparents (They never wanted kids around)
I saw my Grandmother ONCE in my 9 years while she was living .

Tony Rezko   January 26th, 2009 6:05 pm ET

Nice, I thought that liberals were the "peace and love, peace and love" part of society, its funny that you guys will defend Obama-Lama's honor in blogs, but I bet you wouldn't do squat on the street....

Robin   January 26th, 2009 6:04 pm ET

Ray, (in regard to your post 4:10 pm)

For the record, my family came over at the turn of the 20th Century, through Ellis Island, LEGALLY. They also worked their fingers to the bone building railroads and paving roads.

They never took a dime of government money, not even during the Great Depression. They managed to hold onto their farm and every member of the family served in WW2, be it on the battlefield or in the factory.

Never owned slaves. Keep praying for God to allow Republicans to burn in Hell. My soul and concience is clean.

This is about being above the law. She was ordered to leave, and did not. It has nothing to do with Right Wing or Left Wing, Black or White. She broke the law. President Obama could have helped her stay legally when he was a Senator. Why didn't he?

P.S Learn to construct a sentence while you are at it.

rose   January 26th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

If this was not the President's aunt would she have been granted this stay? There are a number of immigrations in this country illegally and am curious to know whether the same will apply to them.

Bridgette-PA   January 26th, 2009 5:55 pm ET

"Michael B"- the Golden Gate Bridge is waiting for you to jump off of it. Do it now!

Matt   January 26th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

Ok Ray you need to seek medical help and fast ok. You have some serious rage control issues and need to get a better history book. White people are not here illegally and somehow every other race is here legally.

If anything we are here because of the poor lax standards of immigration that the Native Americans had at the time. If we are to learn anything from history and this mistake it is not to have a poor immigration standard so that the same thing does not happen to us as well one day.

Now go back and put a tin foil hat on crazy boy and try and figure out why Mexicans speak Spanish if not for the very same poor immigration standards.

Pete   January 26th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

I wonder who put the pressure on to get her off the list?

Change, if you are scitzo and can't comprehend sarcasm!

Freed_From_W   January 26th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

Hell yeah – if I was denied asylum, I'd stay too. Land of the Free, indeed.

Desmond Sequeira   January 26th, 2009 5:49 pm ET

Let's make this a crisis. Do not worry about the economy or terrorism or the environment. Just keep an eye on this lovely lady. She could be dangerous.

Jackie in Dallas   January 26th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

Just the Truth:

Since when have you met all of Obama's supporters? Do you know any of them that would actually support him if caught engaging in incest with his daughters? Nope, I didn't think so. I voted for President Obama, but I don't think he is perfect, and I'll scream just as loud if he messes up than any of you neo-cons, just like I screamed loudly at the abuse and scandals in the GOP. But I'm willing to cut him a bit of slack considering that he's only been in office 6 days. I doubt that President Obama had anything directly to do with his aunt's case - that would be political suicide considering people like you.

The world is not, pardon the pun here, black and white. It is a large continuum of greys. Not being party to the case file of his aunt, just like none of you are either, I'm not rendering a judgement. It is possible that she has been appealing her deportation - that information is confidential, so you wouldn't know. It is also possible that she is here illegally. Her case is going to be re-heard. Odds are, the fact that her nephew is President of the United States will probably come into play on their decision. Let's face it, would you if it were your decision as someone on the Federal payroll, want to be the one who sends her home? Probably not, unless you were a vindictive person. Shall we go back over all the cases of GOP party bigwigs who knowingly hired illegals, or at least didn't ask for documentation? Shall we go over the misappropriation of funds of big GOP supporters who were overlooked by the Bush Administration? That's a nice juicy topic. The status of one poor, old lady is pretty minor, in comparison.

Jenny, Geithner paid his taxes AND penalties. He, or more likely his accountant, made a mistake on his 1099 (easy to do with 30+ possible forms to use), and by signing that tax form became liable. When informed by the IRS of the discrepancy, he immediately paid the difference and penalties, plus looked back over prior years and found the same mistake, and amended those returns voluntarily. Please get your news from someone other than Rush. He's not known for the truthfulness of his "reporting."

laura   January 26th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

C U January 26th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

And to think, If BO had run for President in his "Father Land" the half- aunt would have been a senior member of his party holding some sort of position within his government. She could have been the "Auntie Immigration and Housing guru". Opps I hope I didn't give him any ideas!

___________________________-

NO C U ... you are thinking of Bush who gave job to a friend of a friend that was a friend of a very good friend .... remember Brownie ( FEMA ) ;op

Matt   January 26th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

I noticed how the Obama paid bloggers all went after Reality Check because they have no ground to stand on with the issue at hand which is Obama's Aunt is still here illegally and has recieved special treatment. If you don't think she recieved special treatment please explain the attendance at the swearing in and the inaugural ball? If Barack claims to not know where his Aunt is or was then explain further how she recieved invites to these events.

Deport her illegal behind out of this country. I don't care how old she is, I don't care who's Aunt she is.

Darko   January 26th, 2009 5:40 pm ET

Don't they mean:

Obama's aunt remains in US "Illegally" for now???

w.l. jones   January 26th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

Who were standing at the gates when every body else came in? Said enough.

funny   January 26th, 2009 5:37 pm ET

Hey Pam,
If you are born in another country, but your parent is a "Natural Born" citizen, yes that makes you a citizen, but you cannot run for president because you were not born on US territory. I speak from experience, I think you need to brush up on immigration laws....

Kiffen Roor.   January 26th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

Wow what a fine example of the government not following laws but expecting the citezens to follow all laws. Wake up people, the obama voters have sold this country out to something far worse than energy corperations. They are cowards and full belivers in the illusion of saftey.

Someone get the bat signal and put a Newt on that thing.

EC   January 26th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

How many of Bin Laden's family members were allowed to stay in the United States by Bush?

Shut the hell up, this is nothing but BS reporting at its worst!!!!

We have MORE important things to worry about than this elderly woman being allowed to stay in the US. Are you kidding me?

Meh   January 26th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

Terry> I'm sorry, did you not see the birth certificate that everyone else has seen? You conspiracy therorists are ridiculous.

Steve (the real one)   January 26th, 2009 5:35 pm ET

globalgroove January 26th, 2009 5:15 pm ET
Steve(the real one)…glad to finally hear one of you admit you're a hater
------------------
Strike two! If you notice hater is in quotes, which indicates that word is someone elses not mine! My point was to point out the flaw in your aurguement. You do however, have one strike to go! Go for it!

tk in IL   January 26th, 2009 5:32 pm ET

Proving once again what we've known all along........

Steve (the real one)   January 26th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

Gisele January 26th, 2009 4:56 pm ET
She might have broken the law, but it's not like she is endangering publice safety or anything.
------------–
gisele,
Either we have laws or we don't . Consider this example. Suppose somebody broke into your house after making sure no one was home. "He might have broken the law, but it's not like he is endangering publice safety or anythingn" (your words, I just changed "she" into "he" ). Based upon your arguement, the robber is good to go, right?

Meh   January 26th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

Baloney. Sorry, but I don't hear you complaining about the millions of other illegals.

And Jenny, Geithner DID pay his taxes. Please do your research.

globalgroove January 26th, 2009 3:42 pm ET
The haters only want her out because she is President Obama's aunt. If it were anyone else they wouldn't care
———————————————-
Wrong! The "haters" want her out if she is here illegally! She was asked to leave 4 years ago! Ridiculous arguement!

C U   January 26th, 2009 5:21 pm ET

And to think, If BO had run for President in his "Father Land" the half- aunt would have been a senior member of his party holding some sort of position within his government. She could have been the "Auntie Immigration and Housing guru". Opps I hope I didn't give him any ideas!

jjr   January 26th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

"Briana the college student January 26th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

Do any of you conservative losers have a job? I bet you are all a bunch of stay at home moms that wish you could do what Michelle Obama does."

To Briana the College Student–

Your comment doesn't even pertain to the article. Also, isn't Michelle Obama basically a stay at home mother now, nothing wrong with being at home. Yes, I am home full time and when my kids go to bed I then work part time from home using my civil engineering degree.

davee   January 26th, 2009 5:16 pm ET

Her asylum request was denied –she was ordered deported. She should have been GONE! Let her apply for residency and immigrate legally like my grandparents did along with all the others who never played the system. Send her back to Kenya!!
What part of ILLEGAL is so hard to understand?? She and all the others are not guest workers, not undocumented labor. THEY ARE CRIMINALS violating the law!
As far as President Obama goes, he is president- get over it. But should'nt he be held to a higher standard? perception is everything, and this seems to be favoritism

globalgroove   January 26th, 2009 5:15 pm ET

Steve(the real one)...glad to finally hear one of you admit you're a hater!!

No Hillary = No Obama   January 26th, 2009 5:14 pm ET

I don't care if she stays here. I live in one of these so-called "sanctuary cities" that protect the illegals. Next door to me I have what I call Illegals, Inc. a network – no a swarm of illegals living in a house that is the best looking on the block, but hasn't had it's tax base raised becaue the city is being duped. There are people in and out all the time. You don't know if they are fugitives or just illegals. They need to do away with sancutary and enforce the laws. In my experience the illegals are the most self-centered group going – they could care less about anything expect their own needs.

barack obama is still just B.O.   January 26th, 2009 5:09 pm ET

Obama is beginning to make Bush look like a genius in only 1 week. He is miraculous!!!!!!

Worried in MO   January 26th, 2009 5:07 pm ET

He is President; not because I voted for him. I cried at the inauguration, and had a strong feeling of impending doom. I still cry. As far as allowing his auntie to come in, she should be with her family, but not illegally. She needs to follow the due process of law just like anyone else. Obama is changing laws and rules to satisfy his own wants. I pray for God's will to be done, and God did allow this guy to become President. God has turned his face from the United States as a whole because we are not following his will. Our country allows abortion, gay marriages, and most people are all about meeeeeeeeeeee!

whoa there, Briana   January 26th, 2009 5:06 pm ET

Briana at 4:31 said:

Do any of you conservative losers have a job? I bet you are all a bunch of stay at home moms that wish you could do what Michelle Obama does.
-------------------------------–

Briana, just because you are a college student does not mean you are open-minded. I am a college graduate, Phi Beta Kappa member, 29-year-old, enthusiastic Obama supporter, STAY AT HOME MOM of two beautiful little boys.

Why?

Because I believe that being there for my children is the most important thing I can do right now, and because I am blessed to be financially able to do so.

I respect Michelle Obama and if you work outside the home if/when you have children, I will respect your choice, too.

Please respect mine.

You have angered me more than any of these "conservative losers" who are bashing Obama.

whoa there, Briana   January 26th, 2009 5:05 pm ET

Briana at 4:31 said:

Do any of you conservative losers have a job? I bet you are all a bunch of stay at home moms that wish you could do what Michelle Obama does.
-------------------------------–

Briana, just because you are a college student does not mean you are open-minded. I am a college graduate, Phi Beta Kappa member, 29-year-old, enthusiastic Obama supporter, STAY AT HOME MOM of two beautiful little boys.

Why?

Because I believe that being there for my children is the most important thing I can do right now, and because I am blessed to be financially able to do so.

I respect Michelle Obama and if you work outside the home if/when you have children, I will respect your choice, too.

Please respect mine.

You have angered me more than any of these "conservative losers" who are bashing Obama.

Michael B   January 26th, 2009 5:02 pm ET

Wow, this President was all about fairness when he ran for President, didn't know his aunt was in the U.S., yet let her sit at his inauguration.

What message does that send to all the refugees from Iraq, whose lives are challenged daily, who are following due process to get into this country?

barack obama is still just B.O.   January 26th, 2009 5:01 pm ET

An apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

I'll bet Obama didn't even know about it too!

So if you know something is illegal and you do nothing about it, does that wash all blame away?
Sort of like harboring a criminal, which is punishable by law.

Angie in Pa   January 26th, 2009 5:01 pm ET

Only because she is President Obamas Aunt Unbelivable the right sure has become Bitter sore losers!! leave the old lady alone

Just the Truth   January 26th, 2009 5:00 pm ET

The funny thing is that the rules are plain and have applied to ALL denied asylum seekers. Now that Obama is President, the rules no longer apply. And I recall all the complaints about Bush breaking the law!

She has no legal basis to remain. If anyone believes otherwise, you are either lying to yourself or covering your eyes and ears so as to not hear anything negative about Obama.

Read the rules yourself. I posted the rule (8 CFR 1003.3 ) and the rule that if an untimely appeal is filed it is rejected. Hundreds of thousand of wannabe asylum seekers have been deported. What is the ONLY difference between them and Auntie? Her nephew is the President plain and simple.

And what basis could someone who is a close relative of the most admired man in Kenya have for claiming asylum?

The truth is no matter what Obama does, his followers will not hold it against him. Even if he engaged in incest with his daughters his followers would come up with something to excuse his behavior.

Robin   January 26th, 2009 4:58 pm ET

My comment is still awaiting moderation. Is it because I am Republican?

My whole thing is why should she get special privilages? We have many people who want to stay here and can't. Why is she here illegally? Surely her nephew could have helped her 4 years ago. Even though he was only a Jr. Senator, he could have helped get a green card to stay in the U.S legally. Will she be living in the Blair House next?

Soccer Nana   January 26th, 2009 4:58 pm ET

@Ray Ray,

Stop trying to be a low self esteem, limbaugh wannabe. No matter what you say regarding this issue, auntie must still go through "due process" regarding her immigration status, JUST LIKE ANY OTHER IMMIGRANT IN THE SAME SITUATION.

Steve (the real one)   January 26th, 2009 4:58 pm ET

globalgroove January 26th, 2009 3:42 pm ET
The haters only want her out because she is President Obama's aunt. If it were anyone else they wouldn't care
----------------
Wrong! The "haters" want her out if she is here illegally! She was asked to leave 4 years ago! Ridiculous arguement!

AndyL   January 26th, 2009 4:57 pm ET

Keep her in Guantanamo Bay until she meets all immigration criterias!

Gisele   January 26th, 2009 4:56 pm ET

She might have broken the law, but it's not like she is endangering publice safety or anything.
She is the US President's aunt for God Sake and that is a huge perk anyone of us would love to have.
President Obama (and all of us whenever we can) has a moral duty to use his influence to help his family members as long as this help does not endanger anyone else.

Beside, if he does not help her, he will probably be criticized for it as well... Remember his half brother who lives in the slums of Kenya?

Gisele   January 26th, 2009 4:53 pm ET

She might have broken the law, but it's not like she is endangering publice safety or anything.
She is the US President's aunt for God Sake and that is a huge perk anyone of us would love to have.
President Obama (and all of us whenever we can) has a moral duty to use his influence to help his family members as long as this help does not endanger anyone else.

Beside, if he does not help her, he will probably be criticized for it as well... Remember his half brother who lives in the slums of Kenya?

GRIM   January 26th, 2009 4:52 pm ET

When this story was originally reported, Obama said he had not talked to his aunt in sometime, but somehow she's important enough to him to get invited to the Inauguration? Something doesn't seem right...........

dmjakers   January 26th, 2009 4:51 pm ET

After the recent death of his grandmother, and the long-ago death of his mother, many will be sympathetic if he gets put in the position of having to deport his aunt.

John   January 26th, 2009 4:49 pm ET

To Briana the college student: Funny how you ask if us conservatives have a job. You are in college probably without a job. The liberals are the ones who don't work since they are able to hold a protest every other day while the rest of us work.

Karen N in Los Angeles   January 26th, 2009 4:47 pm ET

I thought Obama said he supports her deportation.

My opinion is that anyone here illegally should be shown the exit.

I am tired of supporting the entire world that does not pay our taxes, especially now that we have no money.

jm   January 26th, 2009 4:45 pm ET

Why do some of you think this has anything to do with Obama?

I didn't hear any of you complaining when John McCain's brother called 911 to complain about traffic and cussed out the dispatcher when he responded that 911 was for emergencies. Why not? Because it had nothing to do with John McCain!

And this has nothing to do with Pres. Obama!

To seriously –
You are an idiot.

Why do Obamabots automatically draw "comparisons" rather than offer an explanation, especially when the comparisons are apples and oranges. Truth is, Sen. McCain's brother is a moron, and an arrogant fool, and that's that. He is, however, AN AMERICAN CITIZEN who is not breaking any law by being here, unlike Pres. Obama's aunt, who lives in public housing, probably doesn't pay taxes, and got to see her nephew sworn in as President, when others would likely be deported or in jail.

Does no one else have a problem with a President being sworn in with his "illegal immigrant" (should have been deported – not american citizen – not granted asylum = illegal) aunt with him? It just seems a little hypocritical.

rr   January 26th, 2009 4:44 pm ET

Gary January 26th, 2009 4:34 pm ET

"Looks like we'll have to build a fence around Kenya now."

U seriously made my day am still laughing wow

tdlc   January 26th, 2009 4:43 pm ET

ha ha ha. he's from HAWAII. not kenya. at least she was able to enjoy herself here and see obama become president.

janet   January 26th, 2009 4:41 pm ET

gee, somehow they neglect to mention that she is living in free housing from the State!!!!

Ula Nejad Sacramento, Ca   January 26th, 2009 4:40 pm ET

Kenya is not at war. Deportation order already issued. What criteria does she meet? The party is over. Go home.

God Help us   January 26th, 2009 4:37 pm ET

Cry me a River stop whining she is in this country, let her suffer and pay taxes so these big banks can line there offices with $30,000 toilets like everybody else. TO ALL REPUBLICAN, RACIST, PEOPLE WHO DIDN'T VOTE FOR BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA. He is your president it is official and he will be in my 4 yr old daughter history books when she gets older ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

Ray Ray   January 26th, 2009 4:35 pm ET

Now why exactly would ANYONE expect a man who directed earmark money to his wife's employer, did a shady land-deal with a now convicted felon, sat for 20 years in a bigoted church but denied knowing it for political expediency.... WHY would anyone expect THAT person's auntie to obey US Laws?

seriously?   January 26th, 2009 4:35 pm ET

Why do some of you think this has anything to do with Obama?

I didn't hear any of you complaining when John McCain's brother called 911 to complain about traffic and cussed out the dispatcher when he responded that 911 was for emergencies. Why not? Because it had nothing to do with John McCain!

And this has nothing to do with Pres. Obama!

Gary   January 26th, 2009 4:34 pm ET

Looks like we'll have to build a fence around Kenya now.

KB from Texas   January 26th, 2009 4:33 pm ET

This blog looks as if it is designed to say that the President has done something wrong? This is unbelievable!!!!! Give it a rest conservatives.

Hammer   January 26th, 2009 4:33 pm ET

And this is a country of laws, right?

Greed is not good   January 26th, 2009 4:32 pm ET

HEre we go again. Rush Limbaugh now has something to chat about on his radio lecture.

Michael   January 26th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

Just great! It's bad enough that she has been in tne country illegally (and I'm sure he knew absolutley nothing about it), but it is even worse that she got invited to inaugural events. Did I miss something or did we run out of legal residents to invite?

Ida/Tennessee   January 26th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

Kick the foreign Olympian athletes out. They use America to get an unfair advantage during the Olympics. Let them train in their own countries. Stop letting them lay around America all day.

Keep Barack's aunt here, she's old. Leave her alone.

Briana the college student   January 26th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

Do any of you conservative losers have a job? I bet you are all a bunch of stay at home moms that wish you could do what Michelle Obama does.

M Jonah   January 26th, 2009 4:31 pm ET

CNN what you have shown as a comment being moderated has no relation to the above story so please remove that. I do not want this one posted either.

I would rather you post my first comment. I just spoke the truth and nothing more. I did not make any disrespectful comments. Did I?

Diane, TN   January 26th, 2009 4:30 pm ET

Kick the foreign Olympian athletes out. They use America to get an unfair advantage during the Olympics. Let them train in their own countries. Stop letting them lay around America all day.

Keep Barack's aunt here, she's old. Leave her alone.

Outspoken   January 26th, 2009 4:30 pm ET

It'll take B.O. a little longer to get virtual amnesty for the other 10-20 million parasites.

mayah   January 26th, 2009 4:28 pm ET

How can you love me, whom you have not seen?

Proud American   January 26th, 2009 4:27 pm ET

greg January 26th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

wowowowowowowowowowowoowwoowowwowoowwowowowowowowoowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwoooooooooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww,,, i love wow,,, wow,, can my mama come now
________________________________________________-
Evn the country your mother was born in don't want her why should we accept her? Republicans are some of the most dumb humans that I've ever met. One of the worst economies in the world, by the way they caused and their out trying to destory some elderly old lady.

Allen   January 26th, 2009 4:26 pm ET

No special treatment?

OH PLEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAASE!!

not a little sad, actually quite happy   January 26th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

@Obama the elite January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

It just goes to show the the law is only applicable depending on who you are. Could you imagine if this had been Bush or McCain's relative.

If it were their relatives, they would have been granted citizenship and would not have been facing any legal conundrum like this.

Sue   January 26th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

I doubt he even knew this woman was in the country until the media found her-he is the HALF-sister of his father, whom he barely knew. How many of you have relatives you barely even met, and have no idea where they live? She didn't ask to be put in the spotlight, and she'd like to stay here-so would a lot of people moving through the system. Leave it alone.

not a little sad, actually quite happy   January 26th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

@Obama the elite January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

It just goes to show the the law is only applicable depending on who you are. Could you imagine if this had been Bush or McCain's relative.

If it were their relatives, they would have been granted citizenship and would not have been facing any legal conundrum like this.

Just the Truth   January 26th, 2009 4:24 pm ET

(B) Untimely appeal—(1) Rejection without refund of filing fee. An appeal which is not filed within the time allowed must be rejected as improperly filed. In such a case, any filing fee the Service has accepted will not be refunded.

Straight Talk   January 26th, 2009 4:23 pm ET

Let's clean up the place – how about a little CHANGE to the good 'ol boy networking. We should all be equal. If you don't belong – then get out no matter who you are or who you are related to.

Right is Right and Wrong is Wrong. No gray areas here.

Laura, Boston   January 26th, 2009 4:22 pm ET

I knew President Obama's aunt would go to the front of the line. Let's see we have President's allowing family members to break immigration laws. Secretary of the Treasury who doesn't pay back due taxes, sons of VP who leave for IRAQ and lo and behold are transferred (temporarily of course) to the Pentagon. Pentagon staff member who was a former lobbyist (we will waive our brand new rules for him)!

Is this the Change we are to believe in? If so, its going to be a long 4 or 8 years.

CNN please post my comments!

Laura, Boston   January 26th, 2009 4:22 pm ET

I knew President Obama's aunt would go to the front of the line. Let's see we have President's allowing family members to break immigration laws. Secretary of the Treasury who doesn't pay back due taxes, sons of VP who leave for IRAQ and lo and behold are transferred (temporarily of course) to the Pentagon. Pentagon staff member who was a former lobbyist (we will waive our brand new rules for him)!

Is this the Change we are to believe in? If so, its going to be a long 4 or 8 years.

Virginia   January 26th, 2009 4:21 pm ET

It isn't like she just found out about this. The order is FOUR YEARS OLD and she should have been gone. How convenient for her that she got to go to the inauguration of her nephew and even attend a ball. Who paid for that????? If she can stay so should others get to. What's sauce for the goose.....

Worried in MO   January 26th, 2009 4:20 pm ET

Well, I know all you folks out there who voted this guy into office because he is the same color as you are would say it is ok to break the law, and let an illegal immigrant off the hook. Just wait and see, this country is in for a big disappointment when reality checks in.

Ula Nejad Sacramento, Ca   January 26th, 2009 4:20 pm ET

Okay. Can the public be enlightened as to what criteria will she meet to allow her to stay legally when the media follows her case. Or will she receive presidential pardon as one of the "perks"?

Virginia   January 26th, 2009 4:19 pm ET

It isn't like she was just given the order to leave. It is a FOUR YEAR OLD order, and should have come up before now. How convenient for her–she was here for the inauguration of her nephew and got to attend a ball-who paid for that??? If she was allowed to stay four years longer than she should have, and on our dime most likely, then others should be allowed to stay too. What's sauce for the goose......

President Barack Obama   January 26th, 2009 4:18 pm ET

CNN why is this in the ticker? Let the woman be... There are a ton of people you can kick out of America...A few are in these blogs.

R in Maine   January 26th, 2009 4:18 pm ET

The previous administration would not grant asylum because she was black and poor and a woman. That Bush's version of three strikes. And a lot of the complaints here are the same.

Greg   January 26th, 2009 4:17 pm ET

It helps to have friends in high places.

terry   January 26th, 2009 4:17 pm ET

whats good for the goose is good for the gander

Just the Truth   January 26th, 2009 4:17 pm ET

Only a judge's decision can be appealed to the Executive Office of Immigration Review. And if you read the regulations pertaining to such appeals (8 CFR 1003.38) you will clearly see that such an appeal MUST be filed within 30 days of the judge's decision.

Auntie has been here over FOUR YEARS since the judge ruled.

But what is a little rule breaking among family and friends?

If you know the facts you know that Auntie is getting special treatment because of her relationship to President Obama!

Jennifer   January 26th, 2009 4:16 pm ET

For those of you who really are ignorant of the law:

Her case was CLOSED 4 years ago. She was ordered out of the country. Like so many others, she chose to break the law and remain here.

There were no "proceedings" in the four years she was here illegally. The proceedings opened again in December – and I think we all know why they were reopened. Let's face it, it has nothing to do with the fact of this case, other than the glaring fact that she's related to the President.

Of course, all presidents do this type of BS – Obama's hardly alone in bending rules and laws to suit him. Disappointing? Yes. Unexpected? No.

PeterMac   January 26th, 2009 4:16 pm ET

Asylum? From Kenya? If she is entitled to asylum in this country from Kenya then EVERYONE in Africa should be so entitled. Kenya is one of the more stable countries on that poverty stricken continent. That is ridiculous. Let her stay if they want but don't qualify it as asylum or the word ceases to have any meaning.

Helene   January 26th, 2009 4:15 pm ET

Reality check : You also must believe in ghosts, the LochNess monster and other fairy tales. Grow up ! Our President was born in Hawai, which happens to be ... part of the United States ! Surprise !

tom   January 26th, 2009 4:15 pm ET

MORE liberal apologists. Do as we SAY...NOT as we DO.

Laws are not for the "elitiists".

Rick   January 26th, 2009 4:14 pm ET

Throw her out and her nephew along with her.

Moody   January 26th, 2009 4:14 pm ET

"RealityCheck":

Go worship your Queen Sarah Palin and stay with your own delusional crowd. Fox New's website would love to have you.

Moody   January 26th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

"RealityCheck":

Go worship your Queen Sarah Palin and stay with your own delusional crowd. Fox New's website would love to have you.

Bush Basher   January 26th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

Pull your head out people, who really cares?? Get back in line.....the unemployment line that is...

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 4:13 pm ET

Throw her out and her nephew as well.

Ula Nejad Sacramento, Ca   January 26th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

Ha ha ha. I guess he is going to offer her presidential pardon. Welcome to the United States of America. Keeping true to his 510 promises ladies and gentlemen. Having fun America? Its getting really crazy by the day.

susie   January 26th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

Obama brought "change" to our Country!

ray   January 26th, 2009 4:12 pm ET

YOU ARE ALL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS WHITE PEOPLE, READ YOUR HISTORY.

Terry, Lakeland Florida   January 26th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

Reality Check> I think you need one. Your president was born in Hawaii.
----------------
How do you know? Obama refused to show proof even after his grandparents said he wasn't born there.

Just the Truth   January 26th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

She had her day in court and her asylum was denied. She was ordered deported. The only reason her case has been reopened is because she is Obama's aunt.

[Retired Special Agent from Immigration and Customs Enforcement]

Erin   January 26th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

Have any of you thought of the security risk if that woman is deported and kidnapped by terrorists, who then in turn threaten to kill her if Obama doesn't do x, y, and z? Not to mention that people may try to target her to get revenge on Obama for something they don't agree. The man has enough on his plate and doesn't need to worry about that too. Maybe she should get a special visa for 4-8 years until Obama is out of office. Then, deport her after Obama is out of power for everyone's protection.

Southern Princess   January 26th, 2009 4:11 pm ET

Is it just me are does it seem that only illegal hispanics have the right to stay here? Whatever, let her stay.

ray   January 26th, 2009 4:10 pm ET

TO ALL YOU WHITE PEOPLE, TO ALL THE RACISTS REPUBLICANS, TO ALL YOU WHITE BIGOTS, YOU ARE ALL ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS.YOU WHITE PEOPLE KILLED, RAPED AND MURDER THE NATIVES FOR THIS LAND SO DONT EVER FORGET THAT. YOU WHITE RACISTS DID MORE HARM AND ARE STILL DOING MORE HARM TO THIS BEAUTIFUL LAND THAT ANY IMMIGRANT WOULD EVER DREAM ABOUT DOING. HAD ALL THE IMMIGRANTS , BOTH LEGAL AND ILLEGAL BEEN WHITE WE WON'T BE HAVING THIS DEBATE ABOUT IMMIGRANTS. I WISH AND PRAY EVERY DAY GOD BURN ALL REPUBLICANS IN HELL.

Lynn in NM   January 26th, 2009 4:10 pm ET

What a surprise!! I expected that all along. If they deny her case, can she move into the White House and have immunity?

Pam   January 26th, 2009 4:09 pm ET

To RealityCheck: You need to get over it. Even if he was born in Kenya, he was born to an American mother, therefore automatically making him an American citizen. READ YOUR LAWS PEOPLE. Truthfully he was born in Hawaii, a US state, so please stop the stupid propaganda. It's really getting old and annoying. Barack Obama isn't going anywhere and is hopefully on his way to better this country and the world.

ROLL TIDE   January 26th, 2009 4:07 pm ET

A glimpse of things to come from this administration. She should be DEPORTED along with everyone else that is here ILLEGALLY. Look out more relatives will start surfacing!

Kilian Okanwikpo   January 26th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

During his campaign Senator Obama rightly returned his kenyan aunt´s donation to her soon after he learnt she was an illegal alien in the US. Her case was thereafter reopened by the US immigration authorities. President Elect Obama rightly invited his( now teporarily legal alien) aunt to witness his swearing-in. The relevant authorities will soon determine and rule on her case. President Obama will not have any influence on the matter, rightly too.

Just the facts, please   January 26th, 2009 4:06 pm ET

Isn't this one of the relatives Obama has chosen to not have anything to do with? I thought I read somewhere that he doesn't socialize with all his relatives; only a select few.

Jon in CA   January 26th, 2009 4:05 pm ET

Nice the US Government can break it's own laws to accommodate Obama's aunt. We wouldn't want to upset the messiah.

Danny Root   January 26th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

We take pride, or claim to take pride, in being a nation of laws.
If the new president's relatives are above the law and are given special treatment because of their relationship to him, then the Obama promise is stillborn.
I worked and voted for Obama's election. Now I'm having second thoughts about it.

ROLL TIDE   January 26th, 2009 4:03 pm ET

A glimpse of things to come from this administration. She should be DEPORTED along with everyone else that is here ILLEGALLY. Look out more relatives will start surfacing!

Dumas McGee   January 26th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Do as I say

Not as I do

Elle   January 26th, 2009 4:00 pm ET

Wow!! It is sickening to think of all of the laws that have been bent to better benefit President Obama and those connected to him. Since his election, it seems as if past precedent means nothing to you liberals! Why should she be allowed to stay? It shouldn't matter who her nephew is and President Obama want to keep hold of any of the integrity he's claimed to have put back into the office, then I advice him to follow the rules. I mean really?....Does he even have a relationship with the woman?!?

Soccer Nana   January 26th, 2009 3:59 pm ET

@ Lee and Reality Check,

Can indicated Cheney and Gonzales go to trial now? Can Rove get indicted now?

You two need to stop drinking the limbaugh, hannity, and coulter kool aid (remember what happened in Jonestown).

President Obama was born in Hawaii; he did not meet his father's family until HE visited Kenya as an adult.

Yodit   January 26th, 2009 3:57 pm ET

RealityCheck – stop whining. Ms. Oyango is here and she's here to stay. Just grant her asylum NOW and let's get on with it. Oh, BTW, Obama 2012!

Gerry in Va. for Obama.   January 26th, 2009 3:56 pm ET

Yep!!! Lets let all the illegal folks that cross the border from Mexico come and stay but we definately want to try to kick out one old lady from Kenya... WHY? Well that should give Campbell Brown something else to squack about ....

Elle   January 26th, 2009 3:55 pm ET

Wow! It is sickening how so many laws have been bent since Obama was elected. Why is he and the people connected to him being given special treatment?

Gerry in Va. for Obama.   January 26th, 2009 3:54 pm ET

Yep!!! Lets let all the illegal folks that cross the border from Mexico come and stay but we definately want to try to kick out one old lady from Kenya... WHY?

Obama the elite   January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

It just goes to show the the law is only applicable depending on who you are. Could you imagine if this had been Bush or McCain's relative. This just goes to show that this country is in a state of selective prosecution when it comes to enforcing the law. Which is also known as ANARCHY.

Gerry in Va. for Obama.   January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Yep!!! Lets let all the illegal folks that cross the border from Mexico come and stay but we definately want to try to kick out one old lady from Kenya... WHY?

sensible Cape Coral FL   January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

How come "Reality Check" gets his ideas(?) published twice and I can't mine published even once?

Ghost   January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Wow. This almost makes Palin stories relevent.

Reality, since this order was issued 4 years ago, I doubt Obama had the pull to keep her here back then. however, I would think your problem woud be with hte immigration folk, since she hasn't left and was easily tracked down by the media, no less. More to the point, why haven't they gone after her yet?

ZimChick   January 26th, 2009 3:53 pm ET

Now now people don’t get your knickers all in a knot. Like everything else, there is a 'process' that has to be followed. How can she be tried if she is out of the country? According to the law she is allowed to remain in the country until her court date.

John G   January 26th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

So she was told to leave and didn't? Hmmm....sounds pretty clear cut to me.

tishoogle   January 26th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

realitycheck..Get a life..People like you should leave this beautiful
country..Obama is our President..Your a BAD loser!!!!!

Shawn - GA   January 26th, 2009 3:52 pm ET

If this was a GOP relative you folks would have a way diffrent tune here. I am not making a statement one way or the other on this woman, I am pointing out that you folks will act one way or the other based on the "D" or "R"

Perfect Example was when Stern sent his guy out and gave all of McCain's platform out stating it was Obama's and everyone was raving about how great the ideas were.

Those who know me; know that I support our President, what I have a problem with is Bloggers who post nasty things just because.

Ok I am done.... :-)
God Bless

Turnabout is Fair Play   January 26th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

RealityCheck January 26th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

What is wrong with this picture?????? Let's ask her if she was present for his birth in Kenya?
-----------------------------

The man was born in Hawaii to an American white woman, maggot. That alone makes him an American citizen on its own merit. What a brainless tool you continue to be.

Northwest   January 26th, 2009 3:50 pm ET

No "reality check " but she attended yours that took place in a Kennel with the rest of the dogs

JL from Florida   January 26th, 2009 3:50 pm ET

Please calm down people. It is quite normal for the department (EOIR) to grant a temporary stay of deportation proceedings when a court motion to re-open a case (i.e., ask the department to reconsider any action that's been taken on the case) is filed.

Please don't make something out of nothing and understand the law before you respond.

REPUBLICAN = LOSERS   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

Reality Check find out where Obama was born IDIOT!!! Here's a reality check for you it wasn't Kenya DUMMY!!!! lol

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

Deport her NOW. But oh yah, the Dem's are in charge now so they will let her stay just because of who her nephew is. If she broke the law she should face the penalty. What happens if she does some other crime. Will we let that slide too just because of who her nephew is?

Seattle   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

No "reality check " but she attended yours that took place in a Kennel with the rest of the dogs

Seattle   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

No "reality check " but she attended yours that took place in a Kennel with the rest of the dogs

butters   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

Who cares!? If she wasn't related to Obama, no one would care. And, to be honest, I still think no one cares.

Reality Check...please.

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

Deport her NOW. But oh yah, the Dem's are in charge now so they will let her stay just because of who her nephew is. If she broke the law she should face the penalty. What happens if she does some other crime. Will we let that slide too just because of who her nephew is?

willetta suttle   January 26th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

Give me a break! Don't we have more to worry about than this?

Seattle   January 26th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

No reality check needed but she attended yours that took place in a Kennel with the rest of the dogs

JL   January 26th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

Please calm down people. It is quite normal for the department (EOIR) to grant a temporary stay of deportation proceedings when a court motion to re-open a case (i.e., ask the department to reconsider any action that's been taken on the case) is filed.

Please don't make something out of nothing and understand the law before you respond.

butters   January 26th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

Who cares!? If she wasn't related to Obama, no one would care. And, to be honest, I still think no one cares.

Reality Check...please.

REPUBLICAN = LOSERS   January 26th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

Reality Check find out where Obama was born IDIOT!!! Here's a reality check for you it wasn't Kenya DUMMY!!!! lol

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

Deport her NOW. But oh yah, the Dem's are in charge now so they will let her stay just because of who her nephew is. If she broke the law she should face the penalty. What happens if she does some other crime. Will we let that slide too just because of who her nephew is?

worriedmom   January 26th, 2009 3:45 pm ET

Why am I not shocked at this>

rr   January 26th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

Realitycheck
u need to grow up and give it up on President Obama. U may not like him but he is not going anywhere for the next four years actually for the next 8 years so people like u can start going to canada.

greg   January 26th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

wowowowowowowowowowowoowwoowowwowoowwowowowowowowoowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwoooooooooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww,,, i love wow,,, wow,, can my mama come now

James   January 26th, 2009 3:43 pm ET

Leave Zeituni Onyango alone! She is an individual who should be given no more media scrutiny than any other person dealing with immigration. Respect her privacy.

Meh   January 26th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

I agree w. Bertin Evina-Ze. The only reason people are foaming at the mouth about this is b/c of who she is related to.

Reality Check> I think you need one. Your president was born in Hawaii.

globalgroove   January 26th, 2009 3:42 pm ET

The haters only want her out because she is President Obama's aunt. If it were anyone else they wouldn't care.

Bob in Pa   January 26th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

Why she's a citizen of the World !

Law N Legal   January 26th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

There is nothing wrong with this picture. She did not break the law. While you are in removal proceedings, you can stay in the country. This proceedings take forever. You can also appeal the decision, and go in front of the boards of appeals.

Don't be quick to judgements when you don't know the law. IGNORANT

adam   January 26th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

RealityCheck: Your bitter tears of anguish and woe taste the best of all.

Jacob   January 26th, 2009 3:39 pm ET

Boston rarely deports anyone...

Chris, Albany, NY   January 26th, 2009 3:37 pm ET

RealityCheck~LOL~You need a RealityCheck~LOL!

Matthew, New Orleans   January 26th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

Amazing how some people just dont quit with the ignorance and the hate. No one said anything when Bush allowed several Iraques to like in the US. Bigots please get a life.

jo   January 26th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

CNN how come RealityCheck has 2 post???
Let her stay she is the Auty to the President of the United States.

Leave the lady alone!!!!!

Tiffany   January 26th, 2009 3:36 pm ET

RealityCheck...He was born in Hawaii. And if you haven't taken a look at the rest of this site. We have much bigger problems than this.

Dems be dopes   January 26th, 2009 3:34 pm ET

Change and transparency you can believe in..............

Unless you are related to the Chief of Transparency and Change...

Tax evader for a Cabinet post...

No lobbyists in my regime......................maybe

Funding overseas abortions...........

Closing GITMO without a plan...........

I can't wait to see what else he has planned for us.

Ken in Dallas   January 26th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

MendacityCheck, under the law,it doesn't matter if Obama was born on Mars, he was still born an American citizen. Don't you have any new lies to promote? This one's extremely well-debunked, and stale as your week-old gym socks.

Laverne   January 26th, 2009 3:33 pm ET

To RealityCheck: Don't be ignorant, you know Obama was born in Hawaii. Wonder if you are as outraged about the other millions of illegal immigrants in the US. I doubt it!

Lpreddie   January 26th, 2009 3:31 pm ET

HE IS THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES ((( SO WHAT))) ALSO WHY ISN'T THE NEWS REPORTER'S GIVING HIM THE RESPECT THAT HE EARNED, NOT MR. OBAMA BUT PRESIDENT OBAMA....HE IS OUR PRESIDENT NOT OUR FRIEND MR. OBAMA: NOT ONLY IS THIS CNN BUT ALL REPORTERS ON ALL STATIONS EVEN MY LOCAL TV STATION.

texas teacher   January 26th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Seriously, it doesn't matter if she was present or not at his birth. Nor does it matter what country he was born in, his mother was an American citizen so he is one! Now, as far as the aunt's status in the US ... if she should have been deported, then she needs to be treated the same as anyone else. However, we all know there are many many people who have overstayed their visas and are still here, so if we're going to crack down on her, we need to crack down on all!!!

Nija   January 26th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

She can stay with me anytime.

Tafari   January 26th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Get over it & go after all illegal immigrants if you are so frustrated with the system. The issue is bigger than Onyango.

And if you still think Obama was born in Kenya, your just a fool!

Otanes   January 26th, 2009 3:28 pm ET

RealityCheck, you are wrong. If you know anything about immigration courts you would not say that. In most asylum cases, the INS case workers automatically reject the application (and ask the applicant to leave the country) so the case can be heard in an immigration court by a judge (above a clerk pay grade). It’s all part of bureaucratic process.

kayla   January 26th, 2009 3:27 pm ET

HATERS, GET A LIFE.

Lee   January 26th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

Let's be real, "RealityCheck", she can be pardoned now!

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 3:26 pm ET

–RealityCheck-- Give it up buddy. Why don't you take your lame internet smear and burn it.

Kevin   January 26th, 2009 3:25 pm ET

Who cares? It politics as usual. So much for change, like enforcing the laws.

calm down people - what's the big deal?   January 26th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

So what – of course she's being hooked up, but you and everyone else would do the same for a family member put in the same situation.

it doesn't apply to just the president, every gets hooked up through friends – 80% of people in good jobs got their becuase a freind got them an in. students at Ivy league schools mostly were accepted thanks to the donations from their parents convicted fellans across the country have been released due to a presidential pardon, so stop sounding so surprised and outraged that a woman reltaed to the president is going to get her 'perks' to stay in this country. If she's not breaking laws and is contributing to her comunity then what is the big deal?

Or does this mean you don't shop, eat or socialize in 80% of the shops, restaurants, parks in this country because illeagle alians work there? I know there is a huge list of Americans waiting to clean toilets and make your fast food!

Boston Irish   January 26th, 2009 3:24 pm ET

How did she suddenly become LEGAL?? If it had been anyone else, she would have been out of here when they discovered her months ago. I guess the laws have to be obeyed only for some, not all. I can't see anything special to warrant her case being re-opened. Something is giving off a terrible odor.

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 26th, 2009 3:21 pm ET

12,000,001 people who should be rounded up and deported.

Jan Illinois   January 26th, 2009 3:21 pm ET

Laws are laws no matter who your related too Correct? Their are thousands of illegals out there and if the economy keeps going as it is, this will come front and center as it should have years ago, we are having a tough enough time making it on our own let alone taking care of others at this time. It's not Pretty ,but us first for a CHANGE.

flyer   January 26th, 2009 3:21 pm ET

Why is she still here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Send her back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Observant   January 26th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

What is wrong is that you are looking for something? Let's ask you to focus your energy on a solution to current issues affecting the country as a whole.

Have a Good Day!!!

Snake eyes   January 26th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

I GUESS ITS GOOD TO HAVE FRIENDS IN HIGH PLACES.....

person   January 26th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

Yes, "realityCheck" you are the only one in this world who could prove where obama was born. You would know.

Millie Bea   January 26th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

The violation was 4 years ago and th ecase was re-opened in December? And there was no special treatment? Why didn't authorities pick her up 4 years ago- forget who she is related to at this point...

Matt   January 26th, 2009 3:20 pm ET

@ RealityCheck

What reeks of favoritism? That she's being treated like everyone else in her position? Did you read the article or are you just running off at the mouth in hopes people believe your dribble?

person   January 26th, 2009 3:18 pm ET

relax, this is not real news! We just heard the job cuts and you guys are still looking for unimportant news.

Lambert Moore Saint Louis, MO   January 26th, 2009 3:17 pm ET

Do we not have anything else to talk about? We are in two wars an economy that is out of control and this is what someone is getting paid to write about. Give me a break! So much for good news, if this is the type of reporting that we can continue to expect.

Jay   January 26th, 2009 3:17 pm ET

Reality grow up!

Ryan   January 26th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Reality Check really? Did you just write that? I could sell you anything because obviously you will believe anytihng Fixed News puts to you. Tool

P. Y.   January 26th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

Who cares ! This comment should get about 600 comments from Obama haters. I see that " Reality Check " is already on here trying to stir up trouble. Get a life Reality.

Jackson, Seattle   January 26th, 2009 3:16 pm ET

RealityCheck January 26th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

What is wrong with this picture?????? Let's ask her if she was present for his birth in Kenya?
_____________

If McCain had won, would you be on this same soapbox complaining that he was born in the Panama Canal Zone?

Yeah, didn't think so.....hypocrite.

Debby, NJ   January 26th, 2009 3:15 pm ET

RealityCheck:
You seriously need to get one !!!

Ryan   January 26th, 2009 3:12 pm ET

If this issue had been with a Republican, there would have been hell to pay. Immediate deportation!
But, with a Democrat, it's a totally different issue.
She was told to leave 4 YEARS AGO! Hypocrites! I guess that's to be expected with this Administration. I mean, heck, we plan on placing a bonafide tax cheat at the head of the Treasury, so why not let Aunt Onyango stay? I'm sure it's just "an honest mistake."

Mev   January 26th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

Wong said her client had not received any special treatment in the immigration system. But being the President's aunt has its perks.

So much for change. This seems like the same old political crap as always. Sad, I voted for change.

My brother in law never received a deportation order, he did come here illegally but chose to make things right and become a legal citizen. Now he is has been banned from entering the US for 3 years. Here is a woman who was ordered to leave, did not obey the order and she is still here..... and went to at least.... one ball! Should we call her Cinderella?

Tell me....... how can this person say her client never received any special treatment? and why didn't all illegals receive a invitation to the swearing in and at last one ball??

matt   January 26th, 2009 3:11 pm ET

President Shady at his best

Neal   January 26th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

that'd be plane and there'd be an 'it' after organized,

EVERYMAN   January 26th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

If she was not related to the President would she be staying in the USA?

Neal   January 26th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

You know I'm not too worried about an illegal Kenyan, but I'm still confused about the plan flights after 9/11 when the skies were locked down. You remember Bush and Cheney making sure that their Saudi friends got out of the US safely?
I mean, its not like Saudi Arabia has anything to do with the terrorists that attacked us... Well other than the fact that the man who organized is a member of the Saudi aristocracy... and most of the guys who did it were Saudi citizens...
So yeah, why aren't we occupying Saudi Arabia right now?
Why is Osama Bin Ladin free and Saddam Hussein dead?
Why is Dick Cheney in prison?
Why isn't Don Rumsfeld on trial in the Hague for crimes against Humanity?
Why wasn't George Bush impeached? (Heck Clinton was impeached for trying to hide that he was fooling around on his wife... Bush led us to war under false pretenses, which he KNEW were false.)

RealityCheck   January 26th, 2009 3:08 pm ET

She broke the law and did not leave when told to do so. No matter who she is she should be out of here NOW!!!! This reeks of favoritism.

Bertin Evina-Ze   January 26th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

Yeah, big deal!! There are many illegal aliens in this country, so one more won't make a difference. As far as I am concerned, she can stay.

Matt   January 26th, 2009 3:07 pm ET

It's so sad that she's going to get shafted on this. The GOPers are all drooling over the opportunity to have a country-wide coniption fit if she ends up staying in this country.

RealityCheck   January 26th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

What is wrong with this picture?????? Let's ask her if she was present for his birth in Kenya?

Obama will fail   January 26th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

Wait a minute...what am I missing here?
she was ordered to leave the country 4 years ago. She showed INS a finger. After her nephew won, she was allowed to stay.
She "had not received any special treatment" ????? are you for real?
I suggest to appoint auntie Zeituni as a head of INS now (analogy to the guy who will be in charge of IRS for not paying taxes). Way to go Obama!

Marie banderas   January 26th, 2009 3:04 pm ET

this aunt of Obamas is not harming one single one of US, whats the big fuss about ???? this is the very least of MY problems...and shouldnt even be in news !!!

demo in PA   January 26th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

why not her?
that is what is wrong with this country
we let every one in this country that does not belong
then we find out later
that they get a free ride because it B.H Obama aunt
sent her home

eliza   January 26th, 2009 3:00 pm ET

Good for Auntie Zeituni. I am pretty sure I saw her at the inauguration (on TV).

Matt   January 26th, 2009 2:59 pm ET

Obama's illegal Aunt is still here and now that he has taken over she is going to stay. She got tickets to the inaugeration and a inaugural ball as well.

She has recieved more than any law abiding tax paying right to be here American ever did. Deport her already. We can't afford the luxury of illegals on our system any more.

Matt   January 26th, 2009 2:58 pm ET

Obama's illegal Aunt is still here and now that he has taken over she is going to stay. She got tickets to the inaugeration and a inaugural ball as well.

She has gotten more than any law abiding tax paying right to be here American ever did.

Deport this sorry old lady and every other illegal that is taking up space and jobs here in the US. We can't afford the luxury of them on our system any more.

Anonymous   January 26th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

This just tops it all. What a great example for the POTUS to set! The woman has been living here illegally for years and oh, boo hoo, she can stay now! Ship her, and all the rest of the illegals out. This country has enough problems supporting itself without supporting illegals too.

nom deplume, esq.   January 26th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

And this was unexpected, why?

Ridiculous   January 26th, 2009 2:57 pm ET

This is baloney. If she was anyone else she'd be gone. Biased joke of a system and city.

Jason   January 26th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

seems like special treatment for the Rex Americanum and his regal family

Tom   January 26th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

Anyone who was ordered deported from this country should not still be here 4 years later. How many tax dollars have been wasted on the woman and many like her? Maybe if deportations were carried out in a timely manner the jobs and lives of Americans would be much more secure.

Art   January 26th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

This is Obama's aunt, right? Save the court cost and time, give her asylum. You know you will anyway.

Matt   January 26th, 2009 2:56 pm ET

Well color me suprised by this. Obama's illegal Aunt is still here and now that he has taken over she is going to stay. She got tickets to the inaugeration and a inaugural ball as well.

She has gotten more than any law abiding tax paying right to be here American ever did.

So much for change we can believe in and transparency of government.

Deport this sorry old lady and every other illegal that is taking up space and jobs here in the US. We can't afford the luxury of them on our system any more.

Robin   January 26th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

I'm not saying she should not stay, but it seems rather unfair to millions of others who would like to stay and can't.

Next thing you know, she will be living in the Blair House.

Matt   January 26th, 2009 2:55 pm ET

Well color me suprised by this. Obama's illegal Aunt is still here and now that he has taken over she is going to stay. She got tickets to the inaugeration and a inaugural ball.

She has gotten more than any law abiding tax paying right to be here American ever did.

So much for change we can believe in and transparency of government.

Deport this sorry old coot and every other illegal that is taking up space and jobs here in the US. We can't afford the luxury of them on our system any more.

Everett Pusey   January 26th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO OBAMA'S KENYAN GRANDMOTHER? WASN'T SHE SUPPOSED TO BE AT THE INAUGURATION?

cat   January 26th, 2009 2:53 pm ET

American Express it has it's rewards

Charles in MN   January 26th, 2009 2:53 pm ET

Dang she got it made in the shade now. LOL.

phil   January 26th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

pls leave the woman alone .

Jon in CA   January 26th, 2009 2:51 pm ET

SHOCKING!

You mean a woman who had a deportation order MYSTERIOUSLY is granted a "stay" on the deportation order after her nephew was elected President??

NO! It can't be!

I guess SOME people are above the law, eh Barack?

Jenny   January 26th, 2009 2:49 pm ET

Of course she is still here. Obama is in power and power corrupts. Auntie will get to stay, just like Geithner doesn't have to pay his taxes like the rest of the country. Change? Yes, but not for the better, I'm afraid.

I Can't Wait for Obama's Second Inauguration   January 26th, 2009 2:49 pm ET

Cue the right-wing "Outrage".

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