As awareness of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) influence in the United States continues to rise, concerns about the extent of Beijing’s reach into American political, economic, and social structures are being brought to the forefront.
Former congresswoman Michelle Steel, in a recent interview with The Epoch Times, highlighted the CCP’s pervasive presence in California, across the United States, and even on a global scale.
Her insights offer a sobering look at the strategic maneuvers employed by the CCP to extend its influence, raising questions about national security, economic independence, and the safeguarding of democratic values.
CCP’s influence in California
California, with its vast economy and significant political sway, has been a primary target of CCP influence operations.
Steel underscored how Beijing has strategically inserted itself into key industries and educational institutions within the state.
Chinese-funded Confucius Institutes, which have been scrutinised for promoting CCP-approved narratives, have established a presence in many California universities, raising concerns about academic freedom and the potential dissemination of CCP propaganda.
Moreover, China’s economic investments in California are extensive. The state is home to many Chinese-backed technology firms, real estate ventures, and infrastructure projects, which, while providing financial benefits, also grant Beijing leverage over critical sectors.
With China’s growing stake in the global supply chain—particularly in technology and rare earth materials—concerns over espionage and intellectual property theft remain at the forefront of national security discussions.
Nationwide web of influence
Beyond California, the CCP has been expanding its footprint across the United States in multiple ways.
One of the most concerning aspects, according to Steel, is the infiltration of American political and business circles.
Chinese diplomats and operatives are known to establish connections with local and state officials to shape policy decisions in favor of Beijing’s interests.
This influence extends into media narratives, with Chinese state-owned outlets operating in the U.S. to disseminate pro-CCP content and undermine criticism of China’s policies.
At the economic level, China’s dominance in manufacturing and trade has given it leverage over American businesses.
Many companies rely heavily on Chinese supply chains, making them susceptible to pressure from Beijing.
Instances of corporations self-censoring to avoid offending China—such as major entertainment studios altering content to comply with CCP standards—illustrate how Beijing’s influence extends beyond politics and into cultural spheres.
Global implications of CCP expansion
The CCP’s influence is not limited to the United States; its global expansion is well-documented.
Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has extended its economic and political reach into Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Countries that become economically dependent on Chinese investments often find themselves pressured into aligning with Beijing’s political objectives.
China’s aggressive stance in international organizations further underscores its intent to reshape global governance structures.
From the United Nations to the World Health Organization, Beijing has sought to steer global policies in ways that serve its strategic interests.
This influence was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when China faced criticism for manipulating WHO narratives and downplaying the origins of the virus.
Additionally, China’s expansion in technology and telecommunications—particularly through companies like Huawei—has raised concerns among U.S. allies about cybersecurity and data privacy.
Many nations have already taken steps to limit the use of Chinese technology in critical infrastructure, citing fears of surveillance and espionage.
Countering CCP’s influence
Steel emphasised that countering Beijing’s reach requires a multifaceted approach that involves policy changes, heightened vigilance, and public awareness.
Among the proposed measures is stricter scrutiny of foreign investments, particularly in critical industries like technology, defense, and agriculture.
Strengthening cybersecurity defences and implementing more rigorous screening for Chinese influence in academic institutions are also critical steps in mitigating risks.
Furthermore, bipartisan efforts to hold China accountable for economic manipulation and human rights violations have been gaining traction in Washington.
Legislative measures aimed at curbing China’s intellectual property theft and unfair trade practices have been introduced, underscoring a shift toward a more confrontational approach in dealing with Beijing.
Beyond government action, Steel stressed the importance of educating the American public about the CCP’s influence tactics.
Greater awareness can empower individuals and businesses to recognise and resist efforts by the Chinese government to shape narratives, policies, and economic dependencies in ways that undermine U.S. interests.
What’s next?
The growing awareness of the CCP’s influence in the United States marks a pivotal moment in shaping future policies and strategies to safeguard national interests.Â
While China remains a major economic partner, its political and strategic ambitions require a calculated and firm response from American leadership.
By addressing vulnerabilities in economic dependencies, fortifying national security policies, and fostering public discourse on CCP influence, the U.S. can better position itself to counter Beijing’s expanding reach. As Steel’s warnings highlight, vigilance and proactive measures will be essential in ensuring that American sovereignty and democratic values remain uncompromised in the face of foreign influence campaigns.