Chinese EV Company Linked To Harris Electric Bus Program Raises Red Flags

Vice President Kamala Harris’ Clean School Bus initiative is facing backlash after it was revealed that $395,000 in federal funds went to BYD Americas, the U.S. arm of a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer. This development has caused concern as the company’s president, Ke Li, made substantial donations to the Harris campaign just months after receiving the funds.

Li, identified as a Chinese national, contributed $50,000 in November 2023 to the Biden-Harris campaign, drawing criticism over the appearance of potential conflicts of interest. Federal law prohibits foreign nationals from donating to U.S. political campaigns, though green card holders like Li may be exempt.

The funding awarded to BYD is part of a larger effort to replace diesel school buses with electric alternatives. However, Republicans, including Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), argue that American taxpayer money should not be funneled to companies with ties to China. “This is about national security and ensuring that we are not compromising our technology or energy independence,” Moolenaar stated.

BYD has been criticized for its connections to the Chinese Communist Party, and concerns have been raised about the influence of Chinese technology on U.S. infrastructure. The company is under investigation for espionage, and its rapid rise to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer has only increased scrutiny.

Harris’ Clean School Bus program, part of a broader green energy push under the 2021 infrastructure bill, has awarded billions to various companies. Lawmakers are now pushing for more oversight, particularly when it comes to companies with foreign connections.