The arrest of 64-year-old Chinese national Yaoning “Mike” Sun has heightened concerns about the Chinese government’s alleged interference in U.S. politics. Son was arrested Thursday on charges of acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government and conspiring to influence local elections in Southern California to advance China’s foreign policy interests.
Authorities allege that Mr. Son worked with Chinese officials to support politicians sympathetic to Beijing’s policies. The arrests come amid growing concerns over allegations that China is trying to influence local elections in the United States by supporting candidates who support Chinese interests. Prosecutors allege that Son colluded with fellow Chinese national Chen Jun, who was sentenced to 20 months in prison last month as an illegal agent of the Chinese government.
Mr. Chen, 71, previously pleaded guilty to bribing federal officials to target the anti-Beijing group Falun Gong. Court documents also reveal that Mr. Chen worked with Mr. Sun to interfere in local elections.
The incident is part of broader scrutiny of Beijing’s efforts to influence U.S. governance through local channels, including covert operations and influence campaigns targeting local and state politicians.
Sun’s arrest follows the conviction of fellow Chinese citizen Chen Jun, who was sentenced to 20 months in prison for acting as an illegal agent of the Chinese government. Authorities have emphasized that both men are involved in promoting pro-China policies and influencing elected officials, especially on sensitive topics like Taiwan.
Who is Yaoning “Mike” Sun?
Public records and court documents list Mr. Sun as the director of a news organization called U.S. News Center, which is registered under the ownership of an unnamed California city councilman.
The report appears to have been used as a means to support pro-China rhetoric and strengthen the political standing of elected officials in the United States and China.
Mr. Sun was the campaign manager for an unknown 2022 Southern California City Council candidate.
Records suggest that Son had close ties to the politician, funding some of his travel expenses and collaborating on his political strategy. His role expanded beyond election management, and he is said to have sought to elevate the lawmaker’s standing with Chinese government officials and facilitate interactions with Chinese government diplomats.
Prosecutors allege that Mr. Son conspired with Mr. Chen to interfere in the U.S. election. Sun detailed his role in city council elections to Chinese officials, described them as “new political stars” and called for additional funding for pro-China activities in the U.S. He is accused of writing a book.
He also allegedly lobbied to set up a meeting between city council members and a senior Chinese diplomat in Los Angeles.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada said Son appears to be ideologically committed to furthering Beijing’s goals in the United States. Mr. Son previously served in the Chinese military, confirming his long-standing relationship with China.
Mr. Sun is charged with acting as an unlawful agent of a foreign government and conspiracy to commit crimes against the United States. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in federal prison.
