House Oversight demands FBI answers on Walz-China ties

The House Oversight Committee has renewed its request to FBI Director Christopher Wray for information regarding Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's connections with Chinese entities during his numerous trips to China since 1993. The committee's initial request, made on August 16, went unanswered, prompting Chairman James Comer to label the FBI's lack of response as "inexcusable." The committee is particularly interested in understanding whether Walz received any warnings from the FBI concerning Chinese influence operations. Walz's history includes approximately 30 trips to China, which began when he organized a trip for his students from Alliance High School. Reports indicate that part of the funding for these trips was provided by the Chinese government. The committee is investigating the implications of these trips, especially in light of ongoing concerns about Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence in the United States. Comer emphasized the importance of the FBI's cooperation, stating that the committee has been examining federal agencies' responses to CCP infiltration tactics. He noted that the FBI had previously briefed the committee on these influence operations, which raises questions about Walz's documented relations with CCP affiliates. The new deadline for the FBI to produce the requested documents is set for September 19. The committee's investigation aims to shed light on potential risks associated with Walz's connections and to ensure transparency regarding foreign influence in American politics.