Mitt Romney has claimed that he wants to keep his campaign’s focus away from absurd distractions like birtherism, but his campaign has kept close ties with many who refuse to abandon the conspiracy theories.
Here are six notable birthers on Team Romney:
Donald Trump
Donald Trump, probably America’s highest profile birther, endorsed Romney in February and will host a fundraiser with him on Tuesday.
Ken Bennett
The Arizona Secretary of State — and co-chair of Romney’s Arizona campaign — recently apologized for embarrassing his state by investigating Obama’s place of birth.
Wil Cardon
Arizona Senate candidate Wil Cardon has endorsed Romney in 2012 and served as his Arizona co-chairman in 2008. Romney has donated $2,500 to Cardon’s Senate campaign, despite his embrace of birtherism.
Bill Tobin
Mitt Romney was “pleased” to receive an endorsement from “outstanding” New Hampshire State Rep. Bill Tobin, who signed a letter supporting “Birther Queen” Orly Taitz’s plan to keep President Obama off the ballot.
Joe Arpaio
Sheriff Joe, who has wasted untold tax dollars in his effort to disprove Obama’s citizenship, was an Honorary Chair of Romney’s 2008 campaign.
Matt Romney
Mitt Romney’s son Matt told a New Hampshire crowd in December that his father would relase his tax returns “as soon as President Obama releases his grades and birth certificate.”