House Ways and Means Chair Jason Smith Targets China-Linked Nonprofits in Probe of Foreign Influence
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a move that escalates scrutiny of foreign interference in American civic organizations, House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith has intensified his investigation into nonprofit groups allegedly influenced by Chinese interests. The probe centers on Neville Roy Singham, a China-based, American-born tech entrepreneur accused of leveraging left-wing nonprofits to spread propaganda aligned with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Smith sent formal letters on Monday night demanding records from BreakThrough BT Media Inc. and the Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, two nonprofits accused of promoting narratives favorable to Beijing. These organizations publish content that critics say sows discord and advances CCP messaging within the United States. The letters allege these nonprofits may be acting in coordination with a foreign government to “sow chaos and spread propaganda.”
The investigation is set to take center stage during a congressional hearing scheduled for Tuesday morning titled “Foreign Influence in American Non-profits: Unmasking Threats from Beijing and Beyond.” The hearing will be streamed live on the House Ways and Means Committee’s official website, offering the public a transparent view into the inquiry.
Smith’s actions follow reports linking Singham to a network of far-left activist groups that have reportedly instigated unrest in cities such as Minneapolis. Over the recent weekend, federal agents arrested dozens amid violent protests targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement, highlighting the volatile environment surrounding these groups. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has been at the forefront of responding to these demonstrations.
While BreakThrough BT Media and Tricontinental have not responded to requests for comment, the allegations underscore growing concerns in Congress about foreign governments exploiting U.S. nonprofits to influence public opinion and policy. This aligns with broader efforts by lawmakers to address malign foreign influence, as seen in recent hearings and legislative proposals aimed at safeguarding American institutions.
Experts and watchdog organizations have warned about the risks posed by foreign funding and propaganda in the nonprofit sector. According to reports from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, foreign adversaries often seek to manipulate U.S. civil society to undermine democratic processes.
As the hearing approaches, lawmakers are expected to “follow the money” by examining financial ties and operational links between these nonprofits and foreign entities. The investigation reflects bipartisan concerns about national security and the integrity of American democracy.
For further information on congressional efforts to combat foreign influence, the official U.S. Congress website provides updates and access to hearing materials. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security continues to monitor threats to domestic security, including foreign interference in civic organizations.
Chairman Smith’s probe into these nonprofits signals a significant step in confronting the complex challenge of foreign influence operations within the United States, emphasizing the need for vigilance and transparency in protecting democratic institutions.
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