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China’s Political Influence Exposed in NYC Elections

Symbolic representation of foreign influence on local elections in a city.

News Summary

An investigation unveils alarming links between the Chinese government and electoral manipulations in New York City. Political figures opposing China face serious consequences, as over 50 organizations affiliated with Chinese interests engage in political fundraising. Numerous nonprofits are implicated in violating tax-exempt status while promoting Chinese-aligned candidates. Concerns grow over a potential illegal police station and foreign influence corruption, urging an examination of electoral integrity and the risk of Chinese interference in American democracy.

New York – A comprehensive investigation has revealed alarming links between agents of the Chinese government and electoral manipulations in New York City. The investigation disclosed how these agents allegedly target and influence local elections, with notable cases including the defeat of a state senator who attended an event with the Taiwanese president and backlash against a City Council candidate who openly supported democracy in Hong Kong.

According to the findings, political figures who openly oppose China’s authoritarian regime have faced significant professional consequences. The data indicates that over 50 organizations affiliated with Chinese interests have actively participated in fundraising and backing political candidates over the last five years, despite being legally constrained from such political engagements.

Research indicates that various charitable organizations have established operations across Manhattan and the five boroughs, which were ostensibly set up to provide community support. However, many of these nonprofit organizations have reportedly violated their tax-exempt status by engaging in political advocacy. Records show that at least 19 groups conveyed misleading information to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by denying political involvement, all while promoting candidates and causes aligned with Chinese interests.

The investigation detailed specific events, such as 35 ceremonies where community leaders pledged commitment to China’s stance regarding Taiwan, reflecting the extent of Chinese influence over local political narratives and electoral outcomes. While the IRS has not commented on the systemic violations, New York’s tax agency expressed a lack of resources to probe these issues thoroughly.

Moreover, a significant endorsement occurred when at least nine Chinese-linked nonprofits supported Mayor Eric Adams’ campaign during his re-election efforts. Reports indicated mobilization tactics employed by associations like the Chong Lou USA Association Headquarters to garner votes for Adams, alongside observations of cash distributions at campaign events, known as a common practice within these circles.

The influence of Chinese money in local politics extends to payments made to Chinese media for favorable coverage, raising red flags about ethical standards in political campaigning and media operations. Governor Kathy Hochul has also been scrutinized for her connections with groups sympathetic to Beijing, notably following a fundraiser hosted by an individual with ties to the Chinese government, which was followed by state allocations of pandemic aid to Asian groups, including significant funding to Chan’s nonprofit.

Adding to the concerns, Linda Sun, a former aide to Hochul, was implicated in a conspiracy tied to political activities orchestrated by Chinese officials, suggesting that foreign influence may extend into core electoral processes. This scenario raises pressing questions about the legality of the voters influenced by these associations and whether such individuals possess American citizenship and are eligible to vote.

Experts, including scholars at research organizations, have pointed out the systematic oppression of dissent by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in foreign countries. They warn that associations established by Chinese interests are meant to intimidate politicians who favor Taiwan or who criticize the regime in Beijing. Furthermore, reports surfaced regarding an illegal police station allegedly set up by the leaders of the America Changle Association, followed by FBI investigations, illustrating the serious implications of foreign influence on American elections.

The growing concern about the CCP’s foothold in local elections highlights a neglected front in discussions about foreign interference in U.S. electoral systems. While attention has largely centered on Russian involvement, analysts caution that the Chinese government’s influence operations pose a significant risk to the integrity of elections if left unaddressed.

This investigation underscores the urgent need for awareness and measures to safeguard electoral integrity, as the increasing involvement of foreign entities in local politics threatens to create divisions and disrupt democratic processes within the United States.

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STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER

NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.

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