California State Assemblyman Tri Ta’s office issued a statement on March 12 condemning the Chinese Communist government for attempting to influence the actions and statements of elected officials in California.
Representatives from the Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles contacted Ta’s office to protest against his social media posts from the previous day, including a photo of Ta with the Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco, Wu Chih-hsiang. The consulate personnel also pressured Ta’s office for publicly acknowledging the Taiwan representative, expressing anger in the process.
Assemblyman Tri Ta stated, “Let me make it clear: California’s elected officials do not take orders from the Chinese Communist Party. It is highly inappropriate for a foreign authoritarian government to try to intimidate American public servants simply based on whom we meet or what content we post.”
Tri Ta’s district includes many residents who have immigrated to the United States to escape authoritarian regimes and hold a deep appreciation for democracy and freedom. His own family migrated to the U.S. seeking freedom and to escape persecution by the Vietnamese Communist regime.
“The Chinese Communist Party has a long history of suppressing dissenting voices and exerting pressure on institutions worldwide,” Tri Ta pointed out. “While these tactics may work under the authoritarian rule in Beijing, they have no place in America.”
He also issued a warning against the Chinese government’s attempt to extend political pressure beyond its borders. The assemblyman stated that such attempts to intimidate American leaders will only further strengthen the resolve of those who support freedom and democracy.
Tri Ta emphasized that Taiwan is a free and democratic country, as well as an important economic and cultural partner for California. During Wu Chih-hsiang’s visit to California’s capital, Sacramento, on March 10, Ta accompanied the director to tour the State Assembly and Senate, engaging in discussions about ongoing collaborative projects.
“Taiwan is a vibrant democracy, a crucial economic partner, and a close friend of the United States,” Tri Ta emphasized. “I will always be proud to stand with the people of Taiwan and recognize their representatives.”