The House Oversight Committee is investigating Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and his alleged connections to China and CCP-linked entities. Committee Chairman James Comer wrote a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, notifying the bureau of the investigation into Walz. Comer mentioned that the FBI’s Foreign Influence Task Force investigates the type of activity associated with Walz, which makes him susceptible to CCP influence. The committee is seeking information about the Chinese entities and officials Walz has engaged with, as well as any advice the FBI may have given him regarding CCP influence operations targeting U.S. political figures.
Reports suggest that Walz has longstanding connections to CCP-connected entities and officials, raising concerns about potential CCP influence in his decision-making as governor and potentially as vice president. Walz organized trips to China for students, had a private company that coordinated student trips to China until 2003, and has traveled to China an estimated 30 times. The Committee emphasizes the importance of U.S. officials being aware of CCP political and psychological warfare efforts threatening national security. Walz also served as a fellow at the Macau Polytechnic University and spoke at a convention for the U.S. China Peoples Friendship Association.
Comer pointed out that Walz has shown a concerning relationship with China through his extensive engagements with Chinese officials and entities. Despite his knowledge of China’s human rights violations, Walz has expressed admiration for the accomplishments of the Chinese people. Comer is requesting assistance from the FBI in gathering documents and information related to Walz’s engagements with Chinese entities or individuals, as well as any records of warnings or guidance to Walz from the FBI about engaging with the PRC, CCP, and CCP’s proxies. The CCP has been known to target American officials through influence and infiltration campaigns, which is a cause for concern.
The American people should be concerned about Walz’s relationship with China, given his numerous visits to the country, fellowship at a Chinese institution with a devotion to the CCP, and engagements with Chinese officials. The FBI has noted that its Foreign Influence Task Force investigates activities similar to Walz’s engagement with China. The Harris-Walz campaign has not responded to requests for comment on the investigation. Comer emphasized the need for a full understanding of the depth of Walz’s relationship with China, especially considering the CCP’s efforts to influence and co-opt local leaders. Americans deserve transparency regarding their elected officials’ connections to foreign entities like China.
