Allegations and Charges
Yaoning "Mike" Sun, 64, was charged with acting as an illegal agent of the (PRC) and conspiracy, for his role in influencing policy towards favorably for while serving as a campaign manager for a local politician in .
Sun conspired with Chen Jun, who was sentenced for similar charges, including operating as an illegal Chinese agent and targeting U.S.-based Falun Gong practitioners. The duo allegedly worked under the PRC's to influence local U.S. politics.
U.S. Response and Implications
U.S. officials, including U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, expressed deep concern over the PRC's efforts to influence U.S. politics, highlighting the case as part of a disturbing trend of foreign interference in domestic governance. Sun faces up to 15 years in federal prison if convicted.
The indictment reflects growing tensions between the U.S. and China, amidst broader concerns over Beijing's influence operations globally. The and DOJ are actively addressing these threats to safeguard U.S. political integrity and policy-making processes.