State Rep. Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) today issued the following statement after The Detroit News reported that federal authorities arrested a Chinese national, attending the University of Michigan, for attempting to smuggle a biological pathogen into the United States:

“This alarming case is further proof that the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party is not theoretical — it’s real, it’s growing, and it’s targeting our nation from within. I’m grateful federal officials intercepted this potential act of agricultural terrorism before it could devastate our food supply and send prices skyrocketing for Michigan families.

“While this attempt was stopped, it raises serious questions about how many other dangerous agents and materials are slipping through the cracks. We cannot afford to be complacent.

“The federal government is ramping up enforcement, but Michigan must do its part, too. The Senate must act swiftly on our bipartisan package to crack down on foreign influence and safeguard our farmland, research institutions, and critical infrastructure. House Republicans have already passed this common-sense package with bipartisan support. It’s time for the Senate and the governor to join us in standing up for Michigan’s security and sovereignty.”

Johnsen was a lead sponsor of the House Republican package to restrict foreign adversaries from purchasing land in Michigan and to increase oversight of foreign actors operating in the state. The legislation is currently awaiting action in the Senate.

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