Most House Dems Vote Against Crackdown On Foreign Influence In US Schools

Democrats, however, criticized both bills during floor debate, claiming they had concerns about their scope and potential unintended consequences. Some tried to paint Republicans as racists and bigots, which is par for the Democrat course.

“The bill gives no guidance on what acting directly or indirectly on behalf of means, or how you are supposed to know and how a parent’s contribution to a school program should be evaluated,” Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., said, Fox reported. “And really, are you supposed to scrutinize all parents’ contributions or just those from parents of Chinese American students?”

Regarding China, the country’s communist-led government is increasingly attempting to influence the American education system through initiatives like the Confucius Institutes, which promote Chinese language and culture but are also seen as vehicles for spreading Chinese propaganda.

Launched in 2004, there are over 100 Confucius Institutes in the U.S. The Chinese government funds these institutes, providing resources and teachers.

The Chinese government approves all teachers and events, which can limit academic freedom and restrict discussions on sensitive topics.