Campaign: Obama unaware of aunt's status

(CNN) - Democratic Sen. Barack Obama's campaign responded Saturday to media reports that his aunt was living illegally in the United States, saying the presidential contender had no knowledge of her status.

"Senator Obama has no knowledge of her status but obviously believes that any and all appropriate laws be followed," the statement said.

The Associated Press reported Saturday that an immigration judge rejected Zeituni Onyango's (pron. Zah-tuni On-yon-go) request for asylum four years ago, and she is now living in the United States illegally. CNN has not been able to independently verify the aunt's immigration status. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokeswoman Kelly Nantel declined comment, saying the agency "is prohibited from commenting on any individual's status."