House Republicans are launching a new investigation into Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz’s past involvement with China. On Friday, House Oversight and Accountability Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) requested information from FBI Director Christopher Wray regarding Walz’s interactions with Chinese entities and individuals.
Comer seeks documents and communications related to any warnings or guidance from the FBI about engagement with Chinese representatives. The extent of such communications, if any, remains unclear.
Walz’s extensive China visits and past roles under scrutiny by House Republicans
This inquiry represents a continuation of House Republicans’ strategy to scrutinize their political adversaries, shifting their focus to the Harris-Walz ticket as they finalize an impeachment report concerning President Biden’s family and foreign business dealings.
Walz’s history includes teaching in China during 1989 and leading field trips there while teaching in Nebraska and Minnesota. He has reportedly visited China over 30 times and served as a fellow at Macao Polytechnic University in 2007.
Comer’s letter requests confirmation from the FBI on whether it provided Walz with defensive briefings, which inform individuals if they are targets of foreign intelligence operations. Walz has publicly criticized China, meeting with figures like the Dalai Lama and sponsoring the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act.
Additionally, Comer highlights Walz’s contacts with Chinese officials, including a March meeting with Consul General Zhao Jian. He also references Walz’s alleged participation in a 2019 U.S.-China Peoples Friendship Association event, though the Chinese Embassy’s recap does not mention him.
Comer’s request extends to over a dozen Chinese entities, some of which may not have had contact with Walz. He accuses the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) of attempting to undermine the U.S. through various influence campaigns, expressing concern about Walz’s purported close ties with China.
Walz campaign spokesperson Teddy Tschann defended the governor’s stance on China, criticizing Republicans for diverting attention from their own issues and defending Trump’s policies. He emphasized Walz’s commitment to standing up to the CCP and prioritizing American jobs.
A Democratic spokesperson for the House Oversight Committee dismissed the probe as a political maneuver aimed at benefiting former President Trump, accusing Comer of prioritizing Trump’s interests over effective governance. Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), who is running for Senate, has also questioned Walz’s compliance with foreign travel reporting requirements related to his National Guard service.
