A Chinese auto executive and active member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) donated over $65,000 to New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s campaign, according to state campaign finance disclosures. The contributions may violate U.S. law, which prohibits foreign nationals from funding political campaigns.
Pin Ni, who leads the U.S. subsidiary of Hangzhou-based Wanxiang Group, wrote two checks totaling $30,000 in February and July to a super PAC supporting Sherrill’s bid, along with a $5,800 direct contribution in June. Federal law bars foreign nationals from donating to U.S. political campaigns, while Chinese regulations prohibit CCP members from holding foreign citizenship.
Ni’s donations, reported to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission, make him one of the top contributors to Sherrill’s campaign. Since 2020, he has made over $1 million in contributions, primarily to Democrats, including the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and Biden Victory Fund. He also donated tens of thousands to members of the House Select Committee on the CCP, such as Rep. Darin LaHood, Sherrill, and others.
Experts expressed alarm over the donations, citing concerns about Chinese influence in U.S. politics. Joseph Cella of the Michigan-China Economic and Security Review Group criticized Sherrill for accepting funds from a “member of the Chinese Communist Party,” calling it a “gross lack of judgment.” Paul Kamenar of the National Legal and Policy Center demanded an investigation into potential violations of election laws.
Ni’s ties to the CCP are further highlighted by his designation as an “Outstanding Communist Party Member” by Wanxiang Group, which has been praised by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The company, which operates in automotive parts and green energy, also owns Karma, a U.S.-based electric vehicle brand. Ni’s support for Sherrill aligns with her opposition to EV mandates, including her vote against a 2025 bill blocking state-level restrictions on gas-powered cars.
Ni is also involved in organizations promoting Chinese business interests in the U.S., such as the China Institute and the China General Chamber of Commerce. These groups are linked to CCP initiatives aimed at expanding influence through economic and political channels.
The New Jersey gubernatorial race, set for Nov. 4, 2025, remains closely contested. Sherrill’s campaign has not commented on the allegations.