Port CEO Criticized Trump’s Tariffs — Then Received Praise from Chinese Envoy’s Wife

Port of Los Angeles CEO Gene Seroka, while criticizing Trump’s tariffs in media interviews, received an email from Wang Wei, wife of China’s Consul General, praising his pro-trade stance as “practical and convincing.” The exchange, revealed via public records, offers rare insight into China’s informal lobbying amid the US-China trade war. Seroka responded warmly, affirming support for global trade. Though such outreach is common among diplomats, involvement by family members is rare. Despite rising federal skepticism toward China, local officials like Seroka often value economic ties. The US has warned that China may exploit local relationships to influence national policy.