In 2018, large donations were made to Rep. Brad Sherman’s campaign by Simon Pang of the Royal Business Bank, who had strong ties to Chinese state entities known for exerting influence abroad. The Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (“CPAFFC”) is led by the Chinese political elite and aims to advance Chinese interests overseas. Under Xi Jinping’s rule, efforts to cultivate foreign communities have grown, with the CPAFFC playing a key role. In Canada and Europe, Chinese influence in elections has been a concern. President Biden has warned President Xi not to interfere in the upcoming elections.
Simon Pang, a bank director, has built strong relationships with Chinese officials and American politicians through donations and high-level connections. His ability to influence politicians is evident through his meetings with Rep. Sherman, Governor Newsom, and Mayor Bass. The Royal Business Bank, where Pang was a director, made significant federal contributions and expanded rapidly across the United States.
Members of the US-Sino Friendship Association, including Helen Hong Yu and Kevin Xu, have made federal contributions and coordinated events with Chinese officials. Yu’s company Torchwood has donated under Royal Business Bank. Xu has made substantial donations and is involved in various philanthropic initiatives. The contributions from this association indicate a strategic effort to build relationships with influential individuals in the US.
Simon Pang’s collaboration with the CPAFFC has included arranging trips to China for US politicians and hosting events to promote Chinese interests. He has also cultivated relationships with high-profile figures like Vice Minister Zheng Zeguang. Pang’s extensive connections and contributions have allowed him to gain recognition and access to influential political figures in both the US and China.
The donations made by Pang and his associates through the Royal Business Bank appear to have been part of a coordinated effort to influence politicians and promote Chinese interests. Pang’s background in banking and political connections may have played a role in his ability to engage with prominent figures in both countries. The pattern of donations and relationships built by Pang highlights vulnerabilities in the US political and financial systems.
Simon Pang’s involvement in US politics has raised questions about the extent of Chinese influence in American elections. His donations to Rep. Sherman and other politicians, along with his connections to Chinese officials, have attracted attention from US intelligence agencies. Pang’s strategic approach to building relationships with politicians at all levels of government underscores the challenges posed by foreign influence efforts.
In conclusion, Simon Pang’s extensive network of connections and donations reflect a broader trend of foreign influence in US politics. His ties to Chinese state entities and prominent American politicians raise concerns about the potential impact of these relationships on national security. As the debate over foreign interference in US elections continues, the case of Simon Pang serves as a cautionary tale about the need for vigilance in protecting the integrity of the democratic process.