House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has requested the FBI to release documents detailing Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz’s connections to a China-linked research institute. Comer expressed concerns that Walz's ties could have influenced his past decision-making and may continue to do so if elected, Newsmax reported.

In a letter sent to the FBI on Thursday, Comer asked for records related to Walz’s involvement with the Hormel Institute, a Minnesota-based research center. The institute has collaborated with the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), which has been at the center of global investigations into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Comer's letter follows an earlier request made to FBI Director Christopher Wray in August, demanding further investigation into Walz's ties to China during his tenure as governor of Minnesota.

Comer Raises Concerns Over Walz's China-Linked Involvement

Comer detailed in his letter that Walz supported the Hormel Institute during his time in Congress, securing over $2 million in funding for the institute. He also pushed for a federal earmark of $5 million to aid the research center. According to Comer, these efforts by Walz warrant scrutiny due to the institute's partnership with the WIV.

The Hormel Institute, known for its cancer research, has a long history of collaborating with the Wuhan Institute. However, WIV has faced controversy since the pandemic, with some suggesting a potential link between the lab and the outbreak of COVID-19. Comer questioned whether Walz’s ties to the institute could have influenced his policy decisions during his time in Congress and as governor.

Comer wrote, "Recent reports indicate Mr. Walz, while in Congress, 'helped secure over $2 million' and 'pushed for a $5 million federal earmark' for the Hormel Institute, which is a 'Minnesota-based medical research center with a history of working with the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.'"

Walz’s Travels and Fellowships Add to the Controversy

The House Oversight Chairman also emphasized that Walz made numerous trips to China throughout his career, including a honeymoon in the country and annual student trips when he taught in Nebraska. According to Comer's letter, the Chinese government partially funded one such trip in 1993.

Walz also served as a fellow at Macau Polytechnic University, an institution aligned with China's Belt and Road Initiative. Comer's letter expressed concern that Walz’s deep involvement with Chinese entities may have allowed China to influence his political decisions.

Comer highlighted that Walz’s potential connections with Chinese officials and organizations like the Hormel Institute raise red flags about whether the CCP has influenced his past decisions or could sway his future ones.

FBI Requested to Investigate Walz's Connections

Comer is now asking the FBI to release any relevant documents by September 19 to further investigate Walz's connections to China. Comer believes the information will help determine whether Chinese influence has shaped Walz’s policy decisions as a congressman, governor, and potentially, as vice president.

"The FBI's silence regarding Mr. Walz's documented relations with CCP affiliates is inexcusable," Comer wrote in his letter. He stressed the importance of transparency, particularly as Walz seeks one of the highest offices in the nation.

Reports from the Washington Examiner have compounded Comer’s concerns. The report detailed Walz’s promotion of the Hormel Institute during his time in office and highlighted his history of involvement with China-related entities, adding urgency to Comer's call for a thorough investigation.

Potential Influence on Future Decision-Making

In his letter, Comer warned of the potential implications of Walz’s connections with China if he is elected vice president. "The Committee is concerned that Mr. Walz's involvement with Chinese entities and officials may have allowed the CCP to influence his decision-making as a congressman and governor and potentially would allow the CCP to influence the White House should Mr. Walz be elected vice president," Comer stated.

This inquiry comes at a critical time, with Walz positioned to join the executive branch if Vice President Kamala Harris wins the 2024 presidential election. The investigation into Walz's links with China adds complexity to his candidacy as the election approaches.

FBI Expected to Respond

As the September 19 deadline for document submission approaches, all eyes are on the FBI to see if it will comply with Comer's request. If the FBI provides the requested records, they could reveal crucial information regarding Walz’s ties to China and any potential influence on his political career.

Comer persistently calls for transparency, underscoring the significance of ensuring that foreign influences do not impact U.S. leadership. This investigation’s outcome could have lasting effects on Walz’s vice-presidential candidacy and the broader political landscape.