A dangerous 'agroterrorism' fungus, Fusarium graminearum, was intercepted in Detroit, allegedly smuggled by two Chinese nationals studying at the University of Michigan. Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall stated this incident highlights the need for vigilance against Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence and espionage. He championed a 'Foreign Influence Protection package' to prevent CCP operatives from buying farmland, infiltrating universities, and accessing sensitive data, calling it the strongest nationwide. However, the package is stalled by Senate Democrats and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, whom Republicans criticize for corporate deals with Chinese EV battery companies.
After ‘agroterror’ fungus is seized in Detroit, lawmaker says Michigan has best plan to blunt CCP influence
ChinaUnited StatesMichiganDemocratsTerrorism
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️A dangerous 'agroterrorism' fungus, Fusarium graminearum, was intercepted in Detroit, allegedly smuggled by two Chinese nationals studying at the University of Michigan. Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall stated this incident highlights the need for vigilance against Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence and espionage. He championed a 'Foreign Influence Protection package' to prevent CCP operatives from buying farmland, infiltrating universities, and accessing sensitive data, calling it the strongest nationwide. However, the package is stalled by Senate Democrats and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, whom Republicans criticize for corporate deals with Chinese EV battery companies.
Trending- 1 Months ago: Matt Hall and colleagues sounded alarm about Beijing's efforts; Foreign Influence Protection package led through State House.
- 2 Recently: Fusarium graminearum fungus intercepted in Detroit.
- 3 Recently: Matt Hall speaks out to Fox News Digital.
- 4 Earlier this week: Chinese embassy official claims no knowledge of the case.
- 5 2024: John Moolenaar uncovered evidence against Gotion High Tech.
- 6 October (unspecified year, likely 2024): Five Chinese nationals charged with espionage near Camp Grayling.
- 7 Ongoing: Bill package held up by Senate Democrats and Gov. Whitmer.
- Heightened concerns about Chinese espionage and influence in the U.S.
- Legislative efforts stalled in Michigan
- Ongoing debate about foreign investment and national security
- Parallels drawn to the coronavirus pandemic
What: A dangerous 'agroterrorism' fungus (Fusarium graminearum) was seized in Detroit, allegedly smuggled by Chinese nationals, prompting Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall to advocate for stronger state protections against Chinese Communist Party (CCP) influence.
When: Seized recently (implied); Hall spoke out recently; bill package proposed months ago.
Where: Detroit, Michigan, United States; University of Michigan; Big Rapids, Michigan; Camp Grayling, Michigan.
Why: To prevent Chinese government interference with the U.S. food supply, universities, and sensitive data, following the seizure of a dangerous fungus and other alleged espionage activities.
How: Through legislative action (Foreign Influence Protection package) to block land purchases, university infiltration, and data access, and by exposing CCP operations.