Former Top Aide to NY Governor Arrested on Federal Charges
Allegations Against Linda Sun
Linda Sun, a former top aide to New York's Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, was arrested on Tuesday on federal criminal charges. She is accused of acting as an undisclosed agent of China and the Chinese Communist Party. Sun had previously served as Hochul's deputy chief for a year, after working in various other state government positions. The charges against her include advancing the interests of the Chinese Communist Party in state government, receiving large sums of money, and overseeing transactions related to Chinese government business interests. It is also alleged that she blocked representatives of the Taiwanese government from meeting with NY government officials on multiple occasions. Her husband, Chris Hu, has also been arrested in connection with these charges.
Arrest and Indictment
Sun and her husband were arrested by the FBI at their luxurious Long Island home, which is estimated to be worth over $4 million and houses luxury cars, including a 2024 Ferrari. The indictment alleges that Sun engaged in political activities in the interests of the People's Republic of China and the Chinese Communist Party at their request. She is accused of blocking Taiwanese government representatives from accessing the NY governor’s office and lobbying to change Gov. Hochul's messaging related to China and Taiwan. She also allegedly attempted to arrange an official trip for the NY governor to China.
Money Laundering Charges
Prosecutors claim that the couple laundered the proceeds of their alleged scheme to purchase a $4.1 million home in Manhasset, Long Island, a $2.1 million condominium in Honolulu, and luxury automobiles, including a 2024 Ferrari. "The illicit scheme enriched the defendant’s family to the tune of millions of dollars. Our Office will act decisively to prosecute those who serve as undisclosed agents of a foreign government," U.S. Attorney Breon Peace announced.
Other Benefits and Charges
Other benefits allegedly received from the Chinese government include employment for Sun's relatives, luxury meals delivered to her parents in China, event tickets, and the promotion of a family friend's business. The key charges against Sun include violating and conspiring to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money laundering conspiracy. Her husband Chris has been charged with money laundering conspiracy, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and misuse of means of identification.
Response from Governor's Office
The governor's office has attempted to distance Hochul from Sun, despite her influential position as deputy chief of staff. "This individual was hired by the Executive Chamber more than a decade ago. We terminated her employment in March 2023 after discovering evidence of misconduct, immediately reported her actions to law enforcement and have assisted law enforcement throughout this process," Hochul’s press secretary Avi Small stated.
Investigation Timeline
The investigation appears to have been ongoing for some time, as Sun's high-level position in Hochul's office began in September 2021. She held various positions in the state government from 2012 to 2023, including a staff position in the administration of former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Her most recent position was as Deputy Director of the New York State Department of Labor.
Bottom Line
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential infiltration of foreign agents into high-level government positions. The allegations against Linda Sun and her husband are serious and, if proven, represent a significant breach of trust. As the investigation continues, it will be interesting to see what further revelations come to light. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
