A former aide to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Linda Sun—who has been accused in federal court of acting as a covert agent for the Chinese government—allegedly described Hochul as “much more obedient” than former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, according to text messages presented as evidence in Sun’s corruption trial.
The messages were exchanged during discussions about securing a Lunar New Year video message from New York officials. When efforts to persuade Cuomo were unsuccessful, Sun allegedly told a Chinese official that Hochul, then lieutenant governor, could record it instead. According to the New York Post, Sun wrote, “She is much more obedient than the governor,” and in another message, “The deputy governor listens to me more than the governor does.”
Prosecutors said the requested video message was part of a broader initiative by Chinese officials to collect public statements that cast China in a favorable light as the world emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. In another message, Sun reportedly told a Chinese official she could “make sure” Hochul incorporated Beijing-approved talking points into her remarks.
Court evidence also includes claims that Sun previously forged Hochul’s signature on letters inviting officials from China’s Henan province to meet state officials in 2018, and that she influenced other interactions involving foreign governments. Prosecutors allege she facilitated a consulate official’s participation in a 2020 pandemic-era call without disclosure, blocked a potential meeting between Cuomo and Taiwanese representatives, and encouraged Hochul to omit references to Uyghurs in her Lunar New Year speech.
Sun has been charged with violating and conspiring to violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act, visa fraud, alien smuggling, and money-laundering conspiracy. Federal prosecutors added more charges in June 2025, alleging that Sun and her husband directed contracts for pandemic-related supplies—such as masks and ventilators—to Chinese companies.
According to earlier reporting cited in the article, authorities accuse Sun and her husband of accepting large bribes, laundering money, and using the proceeds to purchase luxury vehicles, expensive jewelry, and multiple high-value properties. The couple was arrested in 2024 at a Long Island home valued at approximately $4 million.
Sun previously held senior positions under former Gov. Cuomo before becoming Hochul’s deputy chief of staff. She was dismissed from state government in 2023 following the initial allegations.
