[kabar]

Ted was born abroad but to only 1 citizen parent. However, even if both had been citizen parents, he would still be considered a naturalized citizen

You were correct on most of what you stated, but Cruz is not a naturalized citizen. US Code provides for two methods of citizenship, by birth and naturalization. Cruz obtained derivative citizenship (jus sanguinis) thru his mother. This is considered by birth, since Cruz did not go thru the naturalization process, which is distinctly different than derivative citizenship both in process and substance.

However, the issue of NBC is an open question and needs to be resolved thru the courts. It is not settled law.

[Robert DeLong]

U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual: "Automatic" acquisition of U.S. citizenship after birth, a form of naturalization by certain children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents or children adopted abroad by U.S. citizen parents.

This is Ted's situation.