Former Aide to New York Governor Charged with Acting as Chinese Agent

A former deputy chief of staff to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Linda Sun, has been charged with acting as an agent of the Chinese government. The indictment states that Sun, 41, acted at the direction of Beijing in exchange for millions of dollars in kickbacks and various luxuries, including special deliveries of salted duck.

The allegations against Sun and her husband, Christopher Hu, include violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, bringing illegal immigrants into the country, and money laundering conspiracy. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges in a Brooklyn federal court.

Sun, who was terminated from her position nearly two years ago due to evidence of misconduct, allegedly obstructed representatives of Taiwan‘s government from communication with New York officials. Furthermore, she provided unauthorized invitation letters for Chinese officials to the U.S. and modified state officials’ messaging regarding China.

The acting assistant director of the FBI remarked that Sun used her position to covertly promote the Chinese government’s agenda, significantly threatening national security. It is claimed that her efforts were compensated with substantial rewards, totaling millions of dollars.

The indictment also reveals that the couple utilized fraudulent funds to acquire luxury items, including real estate and a Ferrari. Sun had a long-standing career in the state’s executive branch and had been with the Hochul administration for a brief period.

In response to these developments, the New York Governor’s office expressed outrage over what was termed a “betrayal of trust.” Sun’s earlier employment within the administration of Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in 2021, was emphasized as part of her long career in state government.

As the legal proceedings continue, Sun has been prohibited from contacting the Chinese consulate in New York, and her travel has been restricted to specific areas. Both Sun and Hu are currently out on bond and are scheduled to return to court later this month.