As Beijing seeks to navigate an increasingly wary U.S. political landscape, intelligence reports reveal a strategic pivot towards influencing local governments.
China’s Local Influence: The Hidden Agenda in U.S. Politics
China’s Local Influence: The Hidden Agenda in U.S. Politics
An exploration of China’s growing interest in American local governance amid rising tensions in U.S.-China relations.
When a former aide to New York's governor was accused of acting as a Chinese agent earlier this year, it highlighted an unexpected level of involvement from Beijing in local U.S. politics. While national espionage incidents—such as cyber hacks and intellectual property theft—continue to attract headlines, officials suggest that Chinese diplomats are now focusing on state-level governance, offering enticing perks like travel and cultural exchanges to influence local policy decisions.
Historically, American lawmakers frequently visited China, fostering diplomatic relationships. However, as anti-China sentiment escalates across the United States, many lawmakers now fear backlash for associating with Chinese entities or leaders. For example, Rep. Eric Swalwell's career was shadowed by a two-year ethics investigation over allegations of a Chinese spy aiding his campaign funding. Ultimately, authorities took no action, but this case exemplifies the growing wariness surrounding ties to Beijing.
With access to national leaders narrowing, local politicians have become attractive targets for Chinese influence efforts. According to a 2019 study from a Chinese research organization and Tsinghua University, the attitudes of state politicians are becoming increasingly vital as Washington shifts toward a more hostile stance on China. This strategic pivot reflects Beijing's aim to foster influence in an environment where national dialogue has become less amenable.
Historically, American lawmakers frequently visited China, fostering diplomatic relationships. However, as anti-China sentiment escalates across the United States, many lawmakers now fear backlash for associating with Chinese entities or leaders. For example, Rep. Eric Swalwell's career was shadowed by a two-year ethics investigation over allegations of a Chinese spy aiding his campaign funding. Ultimately, authorities took no action, but this case exemplifies the growing wariness surrounding ties to Beijing.
With access to national leaders narrowing, local politicians have become attractive targets for Chinese influence efforts. According to a 2019 study from a Chinese research organization and Tsinghua University, the attitudes of state politicians are becoming increasingly vital as Washington shifts toward a more hostile stance on China. This strategic pivot reflects Beijing's aim to foster influence in an environment where national dialogue has become less amenable.
