Linda Sun, a former senior aide to New York Governors Kathy Hochul and Andrew Cuomo, has been charged with acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government. The charges, unsealed in a Brooklyn federal court, allege that Sun, along with her husband Chris Hu, engaged in a decade-long scheme to advance Beijing’s interests in exchange for millions of dollars in illicit benefits. The couple is accused of multiple crimes, including violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), money laundering, visa fraud, and more.

 

Allegations of Chinese Influence

Sun, 41, who held the position of deputy chief of staff under both governors, allegedly worked to promote Chinese interests within the New York state government at the behest of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The indictment details how Sun blocked Taiwanese officials from meeting state leaders, ensured New York’s political messaging aligned with Beijing’s priorities, and facilitated unauthorized invitations for Chinese officials to enter the US. The couple reportedly used their illicit gains to fund a lavish lifestyle, including purchasing a Ferrari and acquiring real estate worth $6 million in New York and Honolulu.

 

Lavish Gifts and Manipulation of State Messaging

In addition to high-value purchases, Sun allegedly received gifts from Chinese officials, such as tickets to cultural events and gourmet Nanjing-style salted duck. Her influence within the New York state government extended to manipulating state messaging, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sun is accused of ensuring that then-Governor Cuomo publicly praised China for sending medical supplies to New York, a gesture prominently featured in social media posts from Cuomo’s government account. Additionally, Sun allegedly censored mentions of sensitive issues, such as the persecution of Uyghurs in China, from speeches delivered by state officials.

 

Reactions from Former Bosses

The revelations have sparked outrage among New York’s political elite. Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her shock, stating that Sun’s actions were a “betrayal of trust.” Hochul noted that Sun was fired in March 2023 after some misconduct was discovered and that her administration has been cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s spokesperson downplayed Sun’s influence, stating that she had limited interaction with the governor. However, the indictment suggests that Sun’s reach was far more extensive, shaping key aspects of New York’s response to both domestic and international issues.

 

Broader Implications and Legal Proceedings

Sun’s case is part of a broader effort by the US Department of Justice to root out covert Chinese influence in the United States. This case follows other recent incidents where individuals were accused of acting as unregistered agents for foreign governments, including China. The couple’s activities were reportedly extensive and sophisticated, involving shell companies, encrypted communications, and laundering proceeds from Hu’s business dealings in China. Sun and Hu have been released on bond, with their travel restricted to specific areas. Their next court appearance is scheduled for September 25, 2024. Defense attorneys for the couple have dismissed the charges as “overly aggressive” and are preparing to defend their clients in court.