Representative Chris Smith and Senator Jeff Merkley, leading the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), convened a hearing to address the plight of wrongfully detained Americans in China. The session titled “Bringing Home Americans Detained in China” highlighted the alarming number of American citizens held in Chinese custody compared to other countries and examined diplomatic strategies for their release.
In addition to Smith and Merkley, Representatives Zach Nunn and Michelle Steel were also present at the hearing. Chair Smith emphasized that “the release of American citizens should be the first thing President Biden mentions to Communist Party leader Xi Jinping whenever they talk." He insisted that every U.S. official visiting China should prioritize advocating for detainees like Kai Li, Mark Swidan, Nelson Wells Jr., and Dawn Michelle Hunt.
Cochair Merkley expressed concern over China's continued detention of more Americans than any other nation, despite diplomatic efforts by U.S. officials including Secretary of State Antony Blinken. "Despite these efforts...the Chinese government continues to turn a blind eye," he stated.
Testimonies from families painted a grim picture of conditions faced by detainees. Nelson Wells Sr., father of Nelson Wells Jr., spoke about his son's declining health and need for public attention to spur political action. Harrison Li stressed urgency for his father Kai Li's case before an upcoming change in U.S. administration could stall progress.
Tim Hunt shared his family's enduring hope that hearings like this might open pathways for unjustly detained Americans, citing potential legal avenues under Chinese law without requiring a bilateral treaty.
Former prisoner Peter Humphrey criticized China's judicial system as oppressive rather than just, alleging trials lacked fairness with cases built on coerced confessions.
Concluding the hearing, Representative Smith announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at securing the release of detained Americans through strategic diplomatic measures and increased transparency from the State Department regarding these cases.
Further testimonies are available on the CECC’s website alongside opening statements and archived footage from the hearing.
