A Biden appointee has been instrumental in recruiting Chinese businesses to Delaware, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
In recent years, Michael Marquardt, a Biden appointee to the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad, has played a key role in facilitating business deals between Chinese companies and Delaware-based organizations. Marquardt has served as a "global advisor" to the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) since 2017, leading efforts to attract Chinese investment in the state.
Marquardt's social media accounts provide ample evidence of his work with Chinese businesses. In 2015, he posted on Facebook about welcoming Chinese business executives to Delaware, highlighting the state's advantages as a "gateway to America." He also attended a ceremony where Delaware Governor Jack Markell received an award from China's General Chamber of Commerce.
Biden Appointee Linked to Chinese Businesses amid Allegations of CCP Influence
Marquardt's influence extends beyond DPP. In 2016, he participated in the China-U.S. Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference, which included a keynote speech by Hu Chunhua, a high-ranking member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Chunhua is currently a central figure in China's United Front system, which aims to co-opt potential sources of opposition to the CCP.
Later that year, Marquardt attended the closing ceremony of China-U.S. Tourism Year 2016, where he met with Vice Premier Wang Yang, one of China's most powerful leaders. The event also featured prominent Democrats, including former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and President Obama's ambassador to China, Max Baucus.
Biden Appointee Linked to Chinese Businesses amid Allegations of CCP Influence
Marquardt's ties to the CCP extend beyond official events. He maintains close connections with the China Entrepreneur Club (CEC), a prestigious organization that includes several billionaires and CCP officials. In 2019, he visited CEC in Beijing and described his meeting as "productive."
Marquardt's ties to China raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as he holds a position of trust in the Biden administration. Critics argue that his past and ongoing relationships with Chinese businesses could compromise his ability to make unbiased decisions.
Biden Appointee Linked to Chinese Businesses amid Allegations of CCP Influence
Marquardt's connections to Biden go back to the 1990s, when his wife, Claire DeMatteis, served as Biden's senior counsel. Marquardt and DeMatteis have been prolific donors to Biden's campaigns, contributing over $50,000 since 2003.
Marquardt has also posted numerous photos with Biden on his social media accounts. In a video posted last summer, Biden toasted Marquardt and DeMatteis at their 20th wedding anniversary reception, calling him a "fine man" and joking about his association with Biden's brother-in-law.
Biden Appointee Linked to Chinese Businesses amid Allegations of CCP Influence
The Biden administration and Marquardt have not responded to requests for comment on these issues.
