In Southern California Chinese enclave, a mayor's arrest stokes fears of Beijing's influence
Eileen Wang, the former mayor of Arcadia, California, has pleaded guilty to acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government. Her case has raised concerns among residents about potential backlash against the Asian American community in the area. The San Gabriel Valley, where Arcadia is located, has seen significant demographic changes due to an influx of immigrants from China and Taiwan.
- ▪Eileen Wang was elected to the Arcadia City Council in November 2022 and later became mayor.
- ▪She pleaded guilty to sharing pro-Beijing articles without notifying the U.S. government.
- ▪Residents fear Wang's case may lead to increased scrutiny and discrimination against the Asian American community.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onIn Southern California Chinese enclave, a mayor's arrest stokes fears of Beijing's influenceFormer Arcadia Mayor Eileen Wang has pleaded guilty to being an illegal agent of the Chinese governmentByJAIMIE DING Associated PressMay 30, 2026, 12:01 AM1:16Eileen Wang, the former mayor of Arcadia, Calif., at right, exits federal court after pleading guilty on charges of acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government on Friday, May 29, 2026, in Los Angeles.
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