US prosecutors have charged Linda Sun, a former aide to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, and her husband Chris Hu with serious crimes including acting as agents for the Chinese government. The couple allegedly received lavish gifts and substantial financial benefits from Chinese officials while Sun was in office, enriching their family by millions of dollars. The indictment accuses Sun of manipulating state communications to favor Chinese interests and obstructing Taiwanese government access to New York officials. This scandal has raised significant concerns regarding foreign influence in U.S. politics and government operations.
- The couple was arrested at their Long Island residence, and both pleaded not guilty to the charges in federal court. The indictment outlines various gifts and benefits received by Sun and Hu, including travel accommodations, financial transactions, and even personal gifts from Chinese officials. The FBI previously searched their $3.5 million home in connection with the ongoing investigation. The case highlights the potential vulnerabilities within government structures to foreign influence, especially concerning high-ranking officials.
