Cruz Proposes Legislation To Limit Influence Of Ccp In American Educational Institutions.

Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has introduced a new bill to address concerns over the influence of foreign actors, specifically China, in schools across the United States. The Transparency in Reporting of Adversarial Contributions to Education (TRACE) Act aims to tackle the increasing impact of programs associated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which has become a significant concern in several states, including Oklahoma.

While the legislation does not explicitly mention the CCP, Cruz made it clear in his announcement that the Chinese regime is a key focus of the bill. He highlighted the fact that the CCP invests considerable resources in controlling information and manipulating American educational institutions, alongside other foreign adversaries. The TRACE Act aims to provide parents with the transparency they need, ensuring that classrooms are protected from undue foreign influence.

Emphasizing the importance of transparency, Cruz and his colleague, Representative Julia Letlow (R-Louisiana), complement each other’s efforts regarding CCP influence in schools. Letlow introduced the Parents Bill of Rights, which was passed by the House in 2023. This bill grants parents a range of specific rights, empowering them with greater access and oversight of their children’s education.

One focal point of concern is the Confucius Institute U.S. Center in Washington. This nonprofit organization operates Confucius Institute offices at various colleges and universities across the United States, as well as Confucius Classrooms for grade school students. While the institute claims to promote Chinese language and cultural education, its ties to the CCP have raised questions about its influence in American schools.

The Parents Defending Education organization published a report in July of last year, shedding light on the connection between public school boards in the United States and the CCP-aligned Confucius Institute. The report reveals that 143 U.S. school districts received $17.9 million in funding from the Confucius Institute between 2009 and 2023. Despite increased scrutiny, many school districts have continued their partnerships with the CCP-aligned program, despite other districts terminating their agreements.