City Council Aide Accused of Acting as Illegal Foreign Agent

A Chinese national working as a California city council aide has been arrested for allegedly acting as an illegal agent for Beijing to influence U.S. local politics.

At a Glance

Yaoning “Mike” Sun, 64, was arrested for allegedly acting as an illegal agent for China.
Sun was accused of conspiring with convicted Chinese agent Chen Jun.
He allegedly served as campaign manager for a Southern California city council member.
The case highlights vulnerabilities in local elections to foreign interference.
Sun faces significant prison time if convicted.

Chinese National Arrested in California Political Interference Plot

Federal authorities have arrested Yaoning “Mike” Sun, a 64-year-old Chinese national, for allegedly acting as an illegal agent of Beijing. Sun is accused of attempting to influence local politics in Southern California, raising alarms about the vulnerability of America’s democratic processes to foreign manipulation.

According to prosecutors, Sun conspired with Chen Jun, a convicted Chinese agent, to install pro-Beijing politicians in U.S. government positions. The scheme reportedly involved Sun serving as the campaign manager for a Southern California city council member elected in 2022. This revelation has sent shockwaves through local political circles and prompted renewed scrutiny of foreign influence operations at the grassroots level.

Alleged Activities and Connections

The charges against Sun paint a picture of a coordinated effort to infiltrate local politics. Prosecutors claim that Sun worked closely with Chinese officials, paid campaign expenses, and actively promoted the council member’s political profile both in the United States and China. Perhaps most alarmingly, Sun allegedly sought $80,000 from Chinese officials to support further pro-Beijing activities and facilitated connections with Chinese diplomats.

Sun’s background raises further questions about the extent of China’s influence operations. He previously served in the Chinese military and was involved with pro-Beijing groups in the U.S., including the American Chinese Culture Association and N&N Media Group. These connections suggest a deep-rooted network aimed at advancing Chinese interests on American soil.

Sun and his alleged co-conspirator, Chen, reportedly discussed promoting Beijing’s agenda in the U.S. and reporting to Chinese handlers. They even allegedly planned projects to counter Taiwan flags and Falun Gong presence in U.S. parades, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to influence operations.

Ongoing Investigations and National Response

As Sun remains in custody facing significant prison time if convicted, the investigation into Beijing’s influence network in Southern California and beyond continues. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and FBI officials have expressed grave concern over foreign interference in U.S. governance, emphasizing the need for vigilance at all levels of government.