Former NY governor aide and husband arrested for conspiracy in federal case

Linda Sun, a former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and her husband Chris Hu were arrested on conspiracy and money laundering charges. The arrests followed an FBI raid on Sun's Long Island home in July 2023, which revealed evidence of misconduct. Sun is accused of violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, engaging in visa fraud, alien smuggling, and conspiring to launder money, allegedly acting on behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese Communist Party. Sun had been employed by the Executive Chamber for over a decade, focusing on business development and diversity initiatives. However, her tenure ended in March 2023 when Hochul's office discovered misconduct, leading to her termination and a report to law enforcement. Following her dismissal, Sun took a position with the New York State Department of Labor but left public service shortly thereafter. Chris Hu, Sun's husband, is also implicated in the money laundering conspiracy. He operates a liquor store in Queens, where high-priced items are sold, indicating potential financial irregularities. The couple's legal troubles have raised questions about their activities and connections, particularly regarding foreign influence in U.S. politics. The case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign interference and the importance of transparency in government roles. Hochul's administration has stated its commitment to cooperating with law enforcement, emphasizing the need for accountability in public service. The situation continues to develop as authorities investigate the full extent of the alleged misconduct.