NY's Chinese Consul General No Longer In Position After Former Hochul Aide Charged As Spy

Following the arrest of her former aide on charges of spying for China, New York Governor Kathy Hochul requested the removal of the Chinese consul general in New York. The U.S. State Department confirmed that the consul general is no longer in his position, stating it was a routine rotation, not expulsion. Hochul emphasized that her request was intended to send a strong message against China's actions. The former aide, Linda Sun, allegedly acted on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party, engaging in visa fraud, smuggling, and money laundering. Sun, who served in various state government roles from 2012, allegedly forged Hochul's signature and manipulated official communications to favor China's interests. She is also accused of facilitating illegal entry for Chinese officials and obstructing Taiwanese representation. Sun and her husband, who is charged with related financial crimes, have pleaded not guilty. Hochul clarified that while Sun didn't have access to sensitive information, she exploited her position to promote Chinese interests and secure visas for CCP officials. This incident has raised concerns about foreign infiltration in government, prompting calls for increased vigilance.