Linda Sun: Former aide to New York governors charged with acting as an agent of the Chinese
Linda Sun, a former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul and ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, was charged on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, with acting as an agent of the Chinese government. The indictment, unsealed by U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, revealed that Sun had been involved in various illegal activities, including violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money laundering conspiracy.
Federal agents arrested Sun at her Long Island home early on Tuesday morning. Her husband, Chris Hu, was also charged with money laundering and conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The investigation began in July when authorities raided their residence.
Sun is accused of secretly working on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) while serving as a senior government official in New York. Prosecutors claim that Sun used her influential positions to benefit China by securing unauthorized letters, facilitating Chinese officials’ travel to the U.S., and influencing political messaging regarding China and Taiwan. Court documents revealed that she received substantial financial benefits, including millions of dollars, as well as gifts and employment favors for her family members in China.
In federal court on Tuesday, Sun and Hu pleaded not guilty to all charges. Bail was set at $1.5 million for Sun and $500,000 for her husband. Both are required to remain within the boundaries of New York City, Long Island, Maine, and New Hampshire while awaiting trial.
The accusations paint a picture of deep connections between Sun and the Chinese government. Allegedly, she facilitated the entry of Chinese officials into New York through unauthorized letters and even tried to arrange a trip to China for a high-ranking New York politician. Moreover, Sun blocked Taiwan’s diplomatic efforts, ensuring that New York’s governor praised China publicly while disregarding aid from Taiwan during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This case has caused shockwaves within the political sphere, with Governor Kathy Hochul expressing her outrage and betrayal. Hochul stated that Sun’s employment was terminated in March 2023 after the discovery of misconduct, although the full extent of her actions was only revealed after the indictment. The next court hearing is scheduled for September 25.
This developing story continues to raise questions about the extent of foreign influence in U.S. politics, particularly at the state level. Both Sun and her husband face serious charges that could have lasting implications on their lives and political careers. More updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
#LindaSunScandal #ForeignAgentCharges #NewYorkPolitics #USChinaRelations #BreakingNews