East Michigan News

Congressman John Moolenaar has responded to the State of Michigan's decision to place Gotion, a company affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), in default on its agreement to build a battery component factory in Mecosta County.

In his statement, Moolenaar said, “Despite Gotion’s rosy promises and influence campaign on local leaders, the residents of Green Charter Township repeatedly showed us they do not support a company beholden to the Chinese Communist Party setting up shop in their town. Two years ago, this community came together and recalled the officials who welcomed Gotion and the CCP to town. Instead of listening to the will of the people, the company decided to fight them; suing the resilient small town in a vain attempt to force its way in, and ridiculing those who did not support its project. While fighting the rural community, the company was derelict in its responsibilities to the State. Now that its contract with the State of Michigan and MEDC is set to be terminated, the people of Green Charter Township can finally move on from Gotion’s lies and broken promises.”

The Michigan Strategic Fund notified Gotion on September 17 that it was in default for failing to make progress on its project for over 120 days and for filing a lawsuit against Green Charter Township. The state gave Gotion 30 days to resolve these issues or face termination of its contract.

Gotion operates as a subsidiary of Chinese parent company Gotion High-Tech and receives subsidies from China’s government. According to Moolenaar, members of Gotion's North America leadership attend CCP board meetings, and there are allegations linking the company to forced labor practices in China.

Moolenaar has been active in efforts opposing this project both locally and at a federal level. Earlier this year, his NO GOTION policy became law. This measure prevents taxpayer funds from being allocated through programs like the Inflation Reduction Act if companies are affiliated with the CCP.

John Moolenaar has represented Michigan’s 2nd congressional district since 2015 after replacing Dave Camp. He previously served in both chambers of Michigan’s legislature—first as a member of the House of Representatives from 2003-2008 and then as a state senator from 2011-2014. Born in Midland, Michigan in 1961, Moolenaar currently resides in Caledonia and graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Science degree.