Former State Official Linked to Chinese Espionage Praises Kathy Hochul's Obedience Compared to Andrew Cuomo
A former state official allegedly linked to Chinese espionage made comments praising Kathy Hochul's obedience compared to Andrew Cuomo. Linda Sun, the accused Chinese agent, convinced Hochul, who was then Cuomo's lieutenant governor, to film a Lunar New Year video for the Chinese consulate. Sun boasted in messages to Chinese officials that Hochul was more compliant than Cuomo and credited herself with getting Hochul to participate in the video. The messages, revealed in court, show Sun arranging for Hochul to film the video after Chinese officials initially requested Cuomo to do so.
In the video, Hochul greets the Chinese consulate official by name, following Sun's coordination. Prosecutors have accused the consulate official, Huang Ping, of providing Sun's family with lavish gifts, including salted ducks, while Sun allegedly acted as an unregistered foreign agent for China. Sun is also accused of performing favors for Chinese officials in exchange for financial benefits for her husband's seafood export business. The alleged corruption enabled Sun and her husband to lead a luxurious lifestyle, owning expensive properties and driving luxury cars.
Sun, who was dismissed from her state government position in 2023 due to misconduct allegations, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case highlights the alleged influence of Chinese officials on Sun and her involvement in illegal activities benefiting China. The trial continues to uncover details of Sun's alleged misconduct and ties to Chinese officials, raising concerns about foreign influence in state affairs.