The leader of the Chinese-American Political Action Committee, who is also at the forefront of protests against federal immigration enforcement under the banner “No Kings,” manages a taxpayer-funded organization with strong links to Chinese intelligence, according to findings by the Daily Caller News Foundation.
The Progressive American Asian Americans (AAPA), based in California, is reportedly set to sponsor national protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. Their president, Elaine Penn, also serves as an executive with the United Chinese Americans (UCA), a Washington, D.C.-based non-profit that has received substantial U.S. government funding—specifically around $370,000 for mental health initiatives called Waves, with Penn as the “training director.”
The UCA claims to focus on strengthening Chinese-American communities through active citizen involvement. However, investigations into the organization’s leadership suggest many have ties to the Chinese government and the Communist Party of China (CCP), raising concerns about possible foreign influence on American democracy.
Michael Lucci, founder of a nonprofit opposing the CCP, described UCA as part of an extensive network of loyalists to the CCP. In response, UCA’s president, Haipei Shue, refuted any ties to the Chinese government, asserting that their actions adhere strictly to U.S. laws and interests.
On social media, AAPA and Penn are promoting an upcoming protest scheduled for June 14 in Oakland, California. This event is a response to growing unrest over ICE raids in various U.S. cities. The rally’s messaging highlights opposition to perceived corruption and threats to civil rights.
The ICE operations that began recently targeted illegal immigrants with serious criminal backgrounds, leading to a notable arrest during ongoing protests in Los Angeles.
Records reveal that several UCA staff members are connected to the CCP and its intelligence divisions. For instance, two members of the UCA’s advisory committee have affiliations with Chinese military intelligence. These connections have alarmed analysts about potential manipulations from foreign entities.
Shue has previously worked with Chinese state media, though he proudly defends UCA’s endeavors. AAPA and Penn did not respond to requests for comment.
Additionally, reports indicate that UCA and its political arm have frequently rallied against U.S. national security measures which they allege promote discrimination. They’ve sent joint letters to state legislatures opposing various bills they characterize as prejudiced against Chinese individuals.
Some of the leadership within UCA also maintains roles within organizations aligned with China’s overseas influence efforts, suggesting a network that might undermine U.S. interests. Concerns continue to mount regarding foreign operations that potentially target critical infrastructure in the U.S.
