Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a second executive order targeting foreign adversaries, specifically China and the Chinese Communist Party. The order requires state agencies to increase security measures to prevent espionage operations, including conducting stronger background checks and banning employees from accepting gifts from or contracting with foreign adversary groups. Higher education faculty and employees are also prohibited from participating in foreign recruitment programs. Experts have noted that Texas is a target due to its numerous industries and research hubs. University professor Jeremi Suri highlighted the need for universities to take more precautions when accepting funding and inviting researchers. While supporting the order, Suri expressed concerns about potential hostility toward the Asian community and the importance of not punishing the majority of Chinese Americans who are not involved in espionage activities. The executive order follows reports of the People’s Republic of China intimidating critics abroad, including in the United States. Governor Abbott’s order also directs the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest individuals involved in harassing Texans on behalf of foreign groups. The FBI in Houston has established a hotline for individuals who believe they are victims of such actions by the Chinese Communist Party.
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Texas Governor Greg Abbott signs second executive order targeting China
