Recent anti-ICE demonstrations in Minneapolis, which have seen clashes between protesters and federal immigration authorities, are now under intense scrutiny. Federal investigators and congressional Republicans are delving into claims that the protests have received financial support from coordinated funding networks, suggesting a broader organizational effort rather than spontaneous local activism, as informed by recent briefings to congressional offices.
"The funding that he's been launching against the American people that are largely contributing to some of these violent protests — This is only benefiting China." - Rep. Anna Paulina Luna
According to a Fox News Digital investigation, several groups have been identified as instrumental in mobilizing demonstrators, orchestrating their message, and guiding the protests. These groups, notably the Party for Socialism and Liberation and The People’s Forum, have been cited as key organizers of the anti-ICE protests in Minnesota and across other states.
Central to the controversy is Neville Roy Singham, a former tech executive, who sold his IT consulting firm for $785 million in 2017 and subsequently moved to Shanghai. Congressional probes and media reports point to Singham as a significant financial patron of the aforementioned organizations through complex nonprofit funding structures connected to international networks. U.S. officials find themselves at a disadvantage in investigating Singham's funding activities due to his residence outside of U.S. legal jurisdiction.
The New York Times had previously investigated Singham in 2023, revealing alleged ties to Chinese state-aligned initiatives and opaque nonprofit funding mechanisms with little accountability. These findings by Trending Politics highlighted the movement of over $250 million through entities with unclear objectives and minimal transparency.
At 71, Singham shares office space with the Maku Group, a media company he funds in Shanghai, which is known for promoting pro-CCP messaging that aims to shape international perceptions of China. Federal records reveal that the FBI scrutinized Singham as far back as 1974 for activities considered counter to U.S. interests.
In light of the escalations in immigration enforcement disputes, Singham and his funding network have attracted intensified congressional scrutiny, particularly from House and Senate committees focused on national security and tax compliance. Representative James Comer (R-KY) has spearheaded a House Oversight investigation into Singham’s alleged funding of anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles and Minneapolis.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has publicly confirmed Singham's connection to funding the protests, pointing out the potential benefits such unrest may have for China. Her confirmation came via a tweet that also highlighted the violence associated with some of these demonstrations.
This ongoing story raises questions about the influence of international funding on domestic protests and the implications for U.S. national security and policy.
