In a surprising turn, Chinese influence operations are targeting local U.S. politics, as shown by a former aide to New York’s governor being charged for acting as a Chinese agent. This incident underscores China's interest in state governance, as Beijing looks to shape local policies and curry favor with city halls and statehouses. Intelligence officials have noted that, traditionally, Chinese espionage focused on national issues like hacks and trade thefts, but local incentives have become a new tactic.
As relations between Washington and Beijing become increasingly strained, access to national leaders has diminished. Lawmakers, wary of backlash from their constituents, are less likely to travel to China or socialize with its diplomats. For instance, Representative Eric Swalwell faced scrutiny after connections to a suspected Chinese spy were revealed, deterring many legislators from engaging with Beijing.
Faced with these barriers, China has pivoted to engaging with local leaders instead. A 2019 study suggests that the perspectives of state governments are now crucial as Washington’s stance on China toughens, showing that local politics could play an increasingly significant role in future U.S.-China relations.
