SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), recently appointed chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), led a hearing on China's actions targeting Taiwan and its supporters, including American citizens. This hearing focused on China's transnational political warfare and repression efforts.

Senator Sullivan stated, "This is transnational repression. It is a coordinated strategy to isolate Taiwan, dominate the global narrative through fear and coercion, and again, not only against Taiwanese citizens, but other citizens, including our own citizens." He emphasized the multifaceted nature of these threats, which include AI-generated disinformation and diplomatic pressure.

The commission received testimony from several experts, including Fan Yun from Taiwan's Legislative Yuan; Rear Admiral Mike Studeman, U.S. Navy (Ret.); Peter Mattis of the Jamestown Foundation; and Audrye Wong from the American Enterprise Institute.

Senator Sullivan has been an advocate for Taiwan in the Senate, having introduced the Sanctions Targeting Aggressors of Neighboring Democracies (STAND) with Taiwan Act in previous Congresses. The legislation aims to deter any potential military invasion by China into Taiwan by threatening comprehensive sanctions.

Sullivan was named chairman of the CECC for the 119th Congress alongside Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.). In his remarks at the hearing, Sullivan highlighted China's intensified pressure not only on Taiwanese citizens but also globally against those who support Taiwan.

He said, "These threats are multifaceted—AI-generated disinformation; the extraterritorial application of PRC laws; of course, diplomatic pressure on Taiwan’s allies; the public intimidation of democratically elected leaders."

Sullivan expressed concern over China's attempts to rewrite international norms and its labeling of Taiwanese officials as "obstinate Taiwan independence diehards," threatening them with severe consequences.

Additionally, he pointed out that credible reports indicate Chinese officials have instructed embassies and security services to expand intimidation tactics globally.

In closing remarks during his introductory speech at the hearing, Sullivan reiterated that every day China becomes bolder in its threats against Taiwan and U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific region: "We need to call that out, have open hearings like this, and push back against this transnational repression."