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Chinese National Charged for Acting as Foreign Agent to Influence California Politics
A Chinese national, Yaoning "Mike" Sun, has been arrested for acting as an agent of Beijing to influence local California politics, including working on a campaign tied to Taiwan issues.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-20
Chinese National Charged for Acting as Foreign Agent to Influence California Politics

The U.S. Department of Justice has unveiled criminal charges against Yaoning "Mike" Sun, 64, accusing him of acting as an agent for the Chinese government to influence state politics in California. Sun, a resident of Chino Hills near Los Angeles, was arrested Thursday on charges of involvement in local political campaigns while serving the interests of a foreign government.

According to the criminal complaint, Sun worked as the campaign manager and a close adviser for an unnamed politician who ran for local office in 2022. During the campaign, he allegedly conspired with Chen Jun, another Chinese national sentenced last month for illegally acting as an agent of Beijing. Chen reportedly discussed with Chinese officials the methods they could employ to sway local political figures, particularly on matters concerning Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory.

The U.S. has long accused Beijing of employing influence campaigns to manipulate international perspectives, particularly concerning Taiwan's sovereignty. The charges further allege that after the politician won office in late 2022, Chen directed Sun to compile an election report for Chinese government officials, who subsequently expressed gratitude for his efforts.

U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada stated, "The conduct alleged in this complaint is deeply concerning. We cannot permit hostile foreign powers to meddle in the governance of our country."

Sun now faces serious charges, including one count of acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. Additionally, he is charged with conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, which could result in up to five years in prison.

This case highlights increasing concerns over foreign interference in U.S. politics, particularly in local elections that may be vulnerable to external influence.
Tagged:

China

USPolitics

FBI

ForeignInfluence

CaliforniaPolitics
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