Ex-Hochul and Cuomo Aide Enjoyed Lavish Lifestyle from Double Life as Chinese Agent, Feds Allege

Luxury Gifts, Mansion, and Extravagant Spending

A former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul and ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo has been accused of leading a double life as a Chinese agent.

According to federal prosecutors, the aide, Xiaoming Li, allegedly received millions of dollars in cash, gifts, and a $4 million mansion from Chinese intelligence officers.

Lavish Spending

• Purchased a $4 million mansion in Rockland County, New York.
• Spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on jewelry, luxury cars, and designer clothing.
• Traveled extensively, including trips to China and other countries.

Alleged Espionage Activities

Prosecutors allege that Li provided Chinese intelligence officers with sensitive information about U.S. political campaigns and foreign policy.

Li is charged with acting as an agent of a foreign government without notifying the U.S. Attorney General, as required by law.

Investigation and Arrest

The FBI investigation into Li began in 2019 and culminated in his arrest in October 2023.

Li has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is currently awaiting trial.

Impact on New York Politics

The allegations against Li have sent shockwaves through New York political circles.

Both Hochul and Cuomo have condemned Li's alleged actions and vowed to cooperate with the investigation.

Source: New York Times