A former New York state official, Linda Sun, was charged on Tuesday, 3 September, for allegedly acting as an undisclosed agent of the Chinese government. Sun, 41, who served in various state agencies for 15 years, including under former Governor Andrew Cuomo and current Governor Kathy Hochul, was arrested along with her husband, Chris Hu, 40, at their US$3.5 million (S$4.6 million) home on Long Island.
Background
Prosecutors in Brooklyn have accused Sun of committing acts to benefit the People’s Republic of China and its Communist Party while working in the state government. Allegations include blocking Taiwanese representatives from meeting U.S. officials, influencing state government messages to align with Chinese priorities, and attempting to arrange a high-level state official’s visit to China. The indictment highlights exchanges between Sun and Chinese officials in 2021, during Cuomo’s governorship and Hochul’s tenure as lieutenant governor.
The allegations
Sun is accused of responding to Chinese officials’ requests, such as arranging for Hochul to deliver a Lunar New Year video with specific talking points provided by the Chinese. She allegedly assured Chinese officials that references to the “Uyghur situation” would be excluded from Hochul’s speech, which ultimately did not mention the alleged human rights abuses against the Muslim ethnic minority in China.
The benefits
In return for her actions, Sun and her husband allegedly received substantial benefits, including millions of dollars in transactions for Hu’s business activities in China. The couple purportedly used the money to purchase a 2024 Ferrari Roma sports car and properties worth about US$6 million (S$7.8 million) on Long Island and in Honolulu. Other gifts included tickets to shows by visiting Chinese orchestras and ballet groups, and Nanjing-style salted ducks prepared by a Chinese government official’s personal chef.
Fired in March 2023
Sun was dismissed from her position in March 2023 after evidence of her misconduct emerged and was reported to the authorities. She faces eight counts, including failure to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act and money laundering conspiracy. Her husband faces three counts, including bank fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Both pleaded not guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo in Brooklyn. Sun was released on a US$1.5 million (S$1.96 million) bond, and Hu on a US$500,000 (S$653,230) bond. Their next court appearance is scheduled for 25 September 2024.
Implications and future developments
This case underscores the ongoing concerns about foreign influence within U.S. political systems. The charges against Sun and Hu highlight the potential vulnerabilities in state governments to foreign interference. As the case progresses, it may prompt further scrutiny and reforms to safeguard against such activities. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for U.S.-China relations and the integrity of state governance.
