Michael Lucci, founder of State Armor, has expressed support for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's investigation into Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) at a Mabank battery site. Lucci's comments, shared on the social media platform X, emphasize the risks posed by foreign companies and advocate for laws that block Chinese access to strengthen U.S. electric vehicle (EV) independence.
"AG Ken Paxton's investigation into CATL, a blacklisted CCP Military Company, highlights national needs," said Lucci, Founder and CEO. "Laws banning China accessing to critical infrastructure in all 50 states. Powerful AG enforcement."
According to Lucci, Paxton's investigation into CATL's involvement in a power storage site near Mabank, Texas, highlights concerns about foreign interference and national security issues related to companies on the Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) list. He encouraged other states to adopt Texas' Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act, which aims to prevent Chinese access to critical infrastructure.
The Texas Attorney General's office reports significant Chinese investment in the state's energy sector, including battery projects from companies like CATL. Some of these entities are listed on the FEOC list, raising security concerns. The Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act, passed in 2021, prohibits contracts with Chinese entities for critical infrastructure as part of efforts to enhance domestic EV battery production and reduce reliance on imported materials from China.
Battery Technology indicates that China dominates global production of lithium-iron-phosphate batteries and processed lithium, controlling 94% and 70% respectively. This dominance poses vulnerabilities in the U.S. EV supply chain since nearly three-quarters of U.S. lithium-ion batteries are imported from China. In response, U.S. policies aim to phase out Chinese materials in EVs by 2027 for tax credit eligibility while building domestic capacity.
Lucci founded State Armor in 2024 as a non-profit organization focused on educating lawmakers and the public about state-level policies countering global threats from countries like China. His previous roles include senior policy advisor at the Platte Institute and fellow at the State Policy Network, where he specialized in economic and fiscal issues. Lucci has consistently advocated for U.S. companies to exit Chinese supply chains and supported legislation restricting foreign influence in American business sectors.
