The focus was to be on Hillary Clinton's confirmation hearing today, but it's Timothy Geithner's nomination for Treasury secretary that suddenly is under scrutiny. The Obama transition office just issued a statement saying that the president-elect stands by Geithner, despite "honest mistakes" involving taxes and the immigration status of a housekeeper.

"He's dedicated his career to our country and served with honor, intelligence and distinction. That service should not be tarnished by honest mistakes, which, upon learning of them, he quickly addressed," incoming press secretary Robert Gibbs said in a statement.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the immigration paperwork of a housekeeper expired during her brief time working for Geithner. She went on to get a green card, and charges were not filed.

Also at issue is what team Obama called a "common mistake" with Geithner's taxes, where he failed to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes while working at the IMF. He later paid the IRS back with interest.

Gibbs' statement signaled that Obama would stand by his nominee. "We hope that the Senate will confirm him with strong bipartisan support so that he can begin the important work of the country," Gibbs said.

Immigration issues have doomed some past Cabinet nominees, including Bill Clinton's first choice for Attorney General, Zoe Baird. Former New York police commissioner Bernie Kerik cited similar problems when he withdrew his nomination for Homeland Security secretary; he was later indicted for conspiracy and tax fraud.

The Senate Finance Committee is reportedly holding an emergency meeting to discuss the matter. Republicans had reacted favorably to his selection, but this news could potentially raise new questions about the choice.