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Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) has taken decisive action to protect Chinese dissidents residing in Texas from harassment and coercion by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). With over 250,000 individuals of Chinese descent calling Texas home, Abbott’s executive order demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding these communities against foreign intimidation. The order addresses campaigns by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including “Operation Fox Hunt,” a global initiative the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) describes as a targeted effort to forcibly repatriate Chinese citizens abroad through illegal practices like extortion and intimidation. Abbott’s directive aligns with Texas’ broader efforts to limit foreign influence and bolster state security.
“Texas will not tolerate the harassment or coercion of the more than 250,000 individuals of Chinese descent who legally call Texas home by the Chinese Communist Party or its heinous proxies,” Abbott stated. “Ensuring the safety, welfare, and well-being of Texans is a top priority. I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to identify and bring criminal charges against individuals who harass Texans on behalf of this hostile foreign adversary. We will continue to do everything we can to protect Texans from the unlawful and repressive actions of the Chinese Communist Party.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s Statement on Executive Order 11.18.2024
Key Provisions of the Executive Order
Governor Abbott’s executive order empowers the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to spearhead efforts to combat harassment and coercion campaigns linked to the CCP. The DPS will identify individuals acting on behalf of foreign adversaries and work with law enforcement to bring criminal charges against those engaging in such activities. This initiative includes monitoring incidents of transnational repression and developing strategies to counter these threats. To further ensure public safety, the executive order establishes a hotline for Texans to report acts of coercion or oppression by foreign governments, providing victims with an accessible and secure way to seek assistance.
The order comes in response to recent DOJ investigations revealing cases where individuals operating as agents of the PRC were charged with stalking Chinese dissidents in the United States. These incidents emphasize the urgency of addressing foreign interference and the need for robust protective measures.
Understanding Operation Fox Hunt
Operation Fox Hunt, a CCP-led campaign, represents a significant global threat to Chinese nationals who have fled their homeland. According to the DOJ, this initiative aims to locate and forcibly repatriate individuals the CCP labels as “fugitives.” The operation employs illegal tactics such as coercion, threats to family members, and intimidation to compel compliance.
The CCP’s reach extends into the United States, where dissidents have been targeted in efforts to silence criticism and enforce authoritarian policies beyond China’s borders. Recent DOJ actions underscore the severity of these threats. Federal authorities recently unsealed arrest warrants against eight individuals accused of acting as agents of the PRC, engaging in international and interstate stalking. These charges highlight the lengths the CCP will go to suppress dissent, even on foreign soil. Governor Abbott’s executive order directly addresses these actions, reinforcing that Texas will not tolerate such abuses.
Texas’ Broader Security Efforts
Abbott’s executive order is part of a broader strategy by Texas to address foreign influence and enhance state security. As lawmakers prepare for the 89th Legislative Session in January 2025, several pre-filed proposals aim to restrict foreign entities, including adversarial nations like China, from purchasing state land. These measures are designed to protect Texas’ resources and prevent undue foreign interference. However, such efforts have not been without controversy, as similar initiatives failed in previous legislative sessions.
Texas’ proactive approach reflects a growing recognition of the need to counteract foreign interference at the state level. As a major economic and political hub, the state is uniquely positioned to set a precedent for others in defending against external threats while safeguarding its communities and sovereignty.
Conclusion
Governor Abbott’s executive order is a pivotal step in protecting Chinese dissidents and other Texans from foreign intimidation. By targeting the CCP’s coercive tactics and empowering state agencies to act decisively, Abbott reaffirms Texas’ commitment to liberty, security, and justice. As Texas continues to address these challenges, it serves as a model for other states to confront foreign interference and ensure the safety of all residents.
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