Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline – September 18, 2024

Last week was a productive week back in session as a bipartisan group of House Republicans and Democrats worked to reduce our Nation’s dependence on the Chinese Communist Party. I introduced an amendment to one bill that would add the Chinese Academy of Sciences to a list of “Chinese entities of concern,” making them ineligible to receive any funds from the Department of Homeland Security. I also joined Cheryl Casone on Fox Business to discuss critical issues facing our Nation today. We also came together as a Nation to pause and reflect on the anniversary of the September 11th attacks. As always, it was a pleasure to visit schools across the Shenandoah Valley and hear from insightful students. As the battle continues to rein in Washington’s out-of-control spending and responsibly fund the federal government, I won’t stop fighting to ensure that the federal government works for folks in Virginia’s Sixth District and across the Nation – not against them.

Combating Chinese Influence in Universities
Last week, I was proud to see my amendment pass, designating the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) as a “Chinese entity of concern.” This designation is not just a label; it reflects a pressing reality regarding our national security. The CAS has consistently collaborated with the Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Liberation Army, presenting a direct threat to our safety. The House Foreign Affairs Committee and the bipartisan Congressional Executive Commission on China have criticized CAS for its state-controlled status and direct reporting to China’s State Council.

Moreover, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission has discovered CAS’s alarming connections to military, nuclear, and cyber espionage initiatives. These findings should raise serious concern. It’s also concerning that CAS is the parent organization of the Wuhan Institute of Virology, an institute infamous for its involvement in controversial gain-of-function research.

This amendment is essential because American colleges and universities are still engaging with CAS, studying highly infectious diseases like avian bird flu, and using taxpayer dollars in the form of USDA grants to fund this risky collaboration. I firmly believe that as long as these institutions are sharing knowledge with a Chinese entity of concern like CAS, they should not receive any Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants for research on sensitive topics related to our national security. We must prevent American higher education institutions from partnering with CAS while simultaneously benefiting from DHS-supported research. We cannot compromise our Nation’s security and safety.

Watch me offer my amendment on the House floor here.

Reauthorizing the Debbie Smith Act
In my 2023 year review newsletter, I discussed that the bipartisan H.R. 1105, the Debbie Smith Act, which I co-led, had passed in the House and was awaiting action in the Senate. I am happy to announce that the legislation to reauthorize the act was signed into law this year.

As a former prosecutor, I recognize the vital importance of DNA evidence in ensuring justice for victims of sexual assault and homicide. I am proud to have played a role in reauthorizing the Debbie Smith Act, which aims to empower our law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools and resources to address DNA backlogs effectively. By enhancing our ability to hold violent predators accountable for their crimes, we can make our communities safer and support the victims who deserve justice. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for the values and the issues that we hold important to us in the Sixth District.

China Week
For years, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has worked to undermine American values and threaten our great nation. As a member of the Select Committee on the CCP, I am dedicated to pushing back against this external threat. Last week, we took decisive action in Congress, passing 25 critical pieces of legislation designed to protect Americans from the military, economic, ideological, and technological dangers posed by the CCP.

One significant measure focused on safeguarding American intellectual property. Alarmingly, about 80% of economic espionage cases prosecuted by the Department of Justice involve the Chinese government or its agents, with 60% of U.S. trade secret misappropriation cases linked directly to China. This legislation will provide our federal law enforcement with the necessary resources to defend U.S. technologies from these threats.

Additionally, securing our nation’s farmland is essential to our national and food security. In recent years, Chinese ownership of productive U.S. farmland has surged from 69,000 acres in 2011 to 384,000 acres as of 2021, some even located near military bases. House Republicans led efforts to pass a crucial bill aimed at better tracking and regulating foreign ownership of U.S. land, especially by adversaries like China.

The CCP has sought to upend global norms and threaten our national security. In Congress, we will continue to work together to defend our nation’s values and restore the strength of the U.S. on the global stage.

Joining Mornings with Maria on Fox Business
I joined Cheryl Casone on Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria to discuss key issues facing our nation. With the September government funding deadline approaching, we talked about House Republicans’ plans for a continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, I also highlighted the recent hearing where families of victims shared heartbreaking stories linked to open border policies. Lastly, I provided an update on China Week, during which the House passed important bills to reduce our reliance on China. You can watch a full clip of the interview here.

Watch the full interview here.

Honoring September 11th
In commemoration of September 11th, 2001, we pause to remember the 2,977 innocent Americans who tragically lost their lives on that fateful day 23 years ago. We honor the heroism of our service members, law enforcement, first responders, and countless civilians who rose to the occasion with courage and determination.

Since that day, America’s finest—our sons and daughters, husbands and wives—have answered the call to defend and advance the American ideals cherished by so many. Let us never forget this tragedy. We must remember that our country is strongest when we unite in remembrance and resilience.

Out and About in the District and on the Hill

I had a great time touring Southern Virginia University with Representative Blake Moore. Our visit included an insightful conversation with the new President, Bonnie Cordon, and an engaging discussion with bright students who asked thoughtful questions.

I had the privilege to speak with Tim Tebow to learn more about the impactful work the Tim Tebow Foundation is doing to combat the rise in child exploitation.

I enjoyed visiting Blue Ridge Christian’s Upper School in Dayton. The students asked excellent questions and offered great insight into issues that face Virginia’s Sixth District.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Congressman. If my office can ever be of assistance, please contact my Washington office at (202) 225-5431.

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