7 FAM 1113 NOT INCLUDED IN THE MEANING OF “IN THE UNITED STATES”If we do not automatically grant citizenship at birth to children born abroad on our military installations and diplomatic facilities, (BTW, I disagree with that policy) then any discussion about Cruz's eligibility is legitimate. I believe the courts would rule in favor of Cruz's eligibility, but that's irrelevant with respect to a discussion about citizenship laws.c. Birth on U.S. Military Base Outside of the United States or Birth on U.S. Embassy or Consulate Premises Abroad:
(1) Despite widespread popular belief, U.S. military installations abroad and U.S. diplomatic facilities are not part of the United States within the meaning of the 14th Amendment. A child born on the premises of such a facility is not subject to U.S. jurisdiction and does not acquire U.S. citizenship by reason of birth.”
I was an Army brat as a kid, and have two brothers who were born in Japan. As I recall, my mom had to go through some extra paperwork regarding their citizenship (forgive me, but that was well over half a century ago).
I believe they also had to fill out some sort of affidavit (or something) when they turned 18. I believe it had something to do with their eligibility for Japanese military service.
For what it's worth, I believe Ted Cruz is as solid a patriot as can be found in this country, and per the Framers' core intents regarding the office of President, would pass muster with them.
Unfortunately, none of them predicted how badly the Constitution would be subverted by the malicious use of language in the distant future. The plain meanings of things in their day, have been stood on their heads, and interpreted precisely opposite to what they originally meant, in our time.
Had they only known, I think they would have spelled things out in even plainer language than they did.