Southern California Man Arrested for Allegedly Acting as Illegal Agent of China

A Southern California man has been arrested on federal charges for allegedly acting as a Chinese agent to influence a local city council election, exposing a complex web of espionage and political manipulation.

At a Glance

Yaoning “Mike” Sun has been accused of acting as an illegal agent of China.
Sun allegedly conspired with convicted Chinese spy Chen Jun to influence US politics.
The case highlights China’s efforts to sway U.S. local elections and foreign policy.
Sun faces up to 10 years in prison for acting as an illegal agent and 5 years for conspiracy.

Arrest Unveils Chinese Influence Operation

The arrest of Yaoning “Mike” Sun, an aide to a California city council member, has brought to light a case of alleged Chinese espionage aimed at influencing American politics at the local level. Sun is charged with acting as an illegal agent of a foreign power and conspiring with Chen Jun, a previously convicted Chinese spy, to infiltrate US political circles.

Sun’s involvement in local politics ran deep. He served as the campaign manager for an unnamed Southern California politician running for city council in 2022. Following the politician’s successful election, Sun allegedly prepared a report for Chinese officials.

California man charged with acting as Chinese agent to influence local election https://t.co/BEWveM9AVO

— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) December 20, 2024

A Web of Influence and Conspiracy

The indictment reveals a complex network of alleged communications between Sun, Chen, and Chinese government officials. Their discussions allegedly centered on efforts to influence US politicians, particularly regarding sensitive issues such as Taiwan. The depth of their alleged conspiracy is evident in Chen’s arrangement of a “core member lunch” to establish a “US-China Friendship Promotional Association,” with Sun slated as vice president.

Chen reportedly sent Sun a message at one point, saying he was “doing a good job, I hope you can continue the good work, make Chinese people proud.”

This quote, as revealed in court documents, underscores the approval and encouragement coming from Chinese operatives. It paints a picture of a coordinated effort to infiltrate and manipulate American politics from the ground up, starting at the local level.

Broader Implications for National Security

Officials have highlighted this case as emblematic of the PRC’s intelligence and influence activities targeting the United States. Of particular concern is the alleged attempt to sway opinions on critical issues such as Taiwan, demonstrating China’s strategic approach to shaping US policy through local politics.

“This case is yet another example of a very disturbing trend: the People’s Republic of China is seeking to influence foreign and domestic policy in the United States. To do so, government officials in China are seeking to help get elected individuals who they see as being friendly to Chinese foreign policy,” Martin Estrada, U.S. attorney for the Central District of California, said.

Estrada’s statement encapsulates the gravity of the situation. It underscores the need for heightened vigilance at all levels of government against foreign interference in our democratic processes.