East Michigan News

FBI Director Christopher Wray issued a warning on "60 Minutes" about the national security concerns posed by Chinese companies attempting to acquire businesses and land in the United States. In response to this warning, Congressman John Moolenaar called on Michigan leaders to take the threat seriously and halt the Gotion project, a battery component factory planned by the CCP-affiliated Gotion Inc. in Mecosta County.

During the interview on "60 Minutes," Wray and intelligence directors from other countries discussed the growing threat of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). When asked if the Chinese government was building industrial sites as covers for espionage operations, Wray confirmed that the FBI had seen such efforts by Chinese businesses.

Moolenaar expressed his concerns about the Gotion project and the risks associated with doing business with CCP-affiliated companies. He highlighted the lack of action by state and local leaders in Lansing, Mecosta County, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) in response to previous warnings about the national security risks.

The proposed site of the battery factory is located just over 100 miles away from Camp Grayling, where the Michigan National Guard has conducted training for Taiwanese military leaders. This proximity raises additional concerns about potential espionage activities. Gotion has also announced plans to send a significant number of Chinese nationals to the factory site.

The Wall Street Journal reported in September that the federal government is aware of 100 incidents where CCP nationals attempted to enter military bases, sometimes posing as tourists. These individuals are believed to be Chinese nationals working under the direction of the Chinese government.

Congressman Moolenaar had previously questioned Bill Evanina, the former director of counterespionage in the United States, about the Gotion project. Evanina confirmed that there was a high likelihood of the CCP using the project for spying.

The warning from FBI Director Wray and the concerns raised by Congressman Moolenaar highlight the urgent need for Michigan leaders to address the national security risks associated with the Gotion project. It is crucial for state and local authorities to listen to these warnings and take appropriate action to protect the interests and security of the United States.

To find out more, go to this link: https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-calls-michigan-leaders-stop-gotion-fbi-director-issues