Defending American Interests: Continuing to Safeguard Our Nation from Subtle Influences by the PRC

Opinion by Glen Hunter for Kandit News & Views

As an American citizen and Special Assistant to the CNMI Governor, I am quite aware of the growing geopolitical competition in the Pacific, especially the subversive moves of the Communist Party of China (CCP). Their actions are more than just diplomatic gestures; they are part of a calculated effort to use companies and representatives in the CNMI to undermine U.S. interests and destabilize the region.

The CCP is running a campaign to twist perceptions, crafting a narrative that suggests government leaders in this US Commonwealth are in cahoots with Chinese interests. This underhanded strategy aims to shift public opinion and political alignments throughout the Pacific. By manipulating images and spinning misleading stories, they create a false sense of agreement with Pacific Island leaders, ultimately trying to chip away at American influence and strategic presence in the area.

In the CNMI, some business personalities closely allied to the PRC have been pushing our governor hard to reverse his administration’s shift away from being overly dependent on the Chinese market. Despite this pressure, our governor stands firm, prioritizing national security and the integrity of our territory. However, I find it troubling that our new CNMI Delegate to Congress, Kim King-Hinds, recently called for federal action to boost direct flights for Chinese tourists. I have said this before and will say it again-it does not make sense. As things stand, the current cap on flights has not been met, with only 32 of the allowed 50 flights being used. Also, legal Chinese tourists can already come here without any changes to federal policy. And most importantly, charter services could easily resume direct flights. The governor has done nothing to alter the ability for tourists from China to legally come to the CNMI. We need to closely examine the reasoning behind this continued push.

Delegate King-Hinds isn’t alone in this. For the past couple of years, influential business figures in the CNMI, along with groups like the Chamber of Commerce, have been vocal about this request, even suggesting the reinstatement of the outdated ‘Annex VI.’ They’ve pressured local legislators, the previous Delegate, and our Governor to publicly support this position. Thankfully, Governor Palacios has shown strong leadership against this pressure, responding with sound logic. He supports legitimate Chinese tourism but firmly opposes seeking special federal waivers or policies just for China.This public statement from a U.S. Congresswoman advocating for pro-China policies specific to the CNMI is significant. It aligns disturbingly with the narrative pushed by the CCP, creating a misleading impression that the U.S. backs their agenda rather than truly benefiting our economy. This situation highlights how China can exploit local politics to subtly shape narratives and policies in their favor.

When Delegate King-Hinds presented her pro-China policy request at a recent Interagency Group on Insular Areas (IGIA) meeting in D.C., it raised eyebrows. The Secretary of the Interior addressed her concerns directly, outlining the harmful activities of the CCP and the multiple threats they pose to our country. He also emphasized China’s involvement in the fentanyl crisis, which has tragically claimed many American lives. In subsequent meetings that same day, other federal officials echoed these sentiments, expressing to our Delegate and Governor their high level of concern regarding Chinese influence in the Pacific and their hope for our support in combating CCP tactics.

It is important that our administration continues its shift away from relying on the PRC. We must deny the CCP the propaganda victories they seek—headlines claiming CNMI support that they would exploit across the Pacific and beyond. This strategic shift is challenging but vital for protecting our national interests. The governor’s commitment to this pivot is a significant setback for the CCP, limiting their ability to use the CNMI as a stepping stone to expand their influence throughout Pacific Island nations. In response, China has predictably increased its efforts to destabilize our economy, hoping to force a change in our administration’s stance or if unsuccessful a change in the administration itself.

Fortunately, our federal government is aware of these threats. The State Department has long recognized PRC tactics and is committed to countering them. By standing firm, we send a clear message: the United States will not be bullied into compromising its values or strategic interests. What our Governor is advocating for from our federal partners is support to back this pivot away from reliance on the PRC. The federal government must take action and provide the necessary funding, tools, and resources that will allow the CNMI to successfully transition away from PRC dependence.

As residents of the CNMI, we hold a unique and critical position in this geopolitical landscape. We are American citizens by choice, having voluntarily entered into an agreement with the United States. It’s our duty to uphold this Covenant and serve as a model of resilience for other regions in the Pacific facing similar pressures. Our actions need to consistently reflect our dedication to safeguarding American sovereignty, promoting regional stability, and upholding our democratic values.In conclusion, we need to stay strong and committed to defending American interests in the CNMI and throughout the Pacific. By recognizing and actively countering these insidious influences, we can ensure that American ideals of freedom, democracy, and rule of law prevail across the Pacific. Our vigilance and determination are vital for preserving our nation’s integrity and security. Let’s stand united as proud American citizens, committed to protecting our sovereignty, values, and building a stable future for both our nation and the Pacific region.

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Glen Hunter is a resident of Saipan, who submitted this opinion as a citizen. He happens to be the CNMI governor’s broadband policy chief.