Virginia’s Democratic nominee for governor, former CIA officer Abigail Spanberger, accepted $50,000 in campaign contributions from Pin Ni—president of Wanxiang America, the U.S. arm of China’s Wanxiang Group, which has clear ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The funds were received in two $25,000 installments in April and May, according to Federal Election Commission records.
Wanxiang Group’s founder, Lu Guanqiu—Pin Ni’s late father-in-law—was recognized by the Chinese government in 2021 as a “National Outstanding Communist Party Member.” A press release praised him for lifelong devotion to Communism and adhered to the Party’s leadership. Spanberger’s campaign has positioned her as a strong advocate for national security, highlighting her CIA background. Her spokesperson emphasized her record of bipartisan cooperation and dedication to public safety.
Nevertheless, her Republican opponent, Winsome Earle-Sears, denounced the donations. A spokesperson accused Spanberger of “cozying up to international interests,” stating, “You can’t claim to stand up to foreign threats while pocketing money from someone celebrated by the CCP”.
Spanberger has backed policies such as electric vehicle tax credits and mandates—initiatives that could benefit Wanxiang’s EV business. In response, concerns have been raised across both parties about China’s use of business investments as potential conduits for influence or espionage within the U.S.
