The Hormel Institute in Minnesota, linked to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), faces scrutiny as connections between its research and Chinese military-backed entities come to light. The institute has collaborated with the WIV on multiple projects, including studies related to COVID-19, raising concerns amid ongoing investigations into political figures' ties with China.
Governor Walz has been a significant advocate for the Hormel Institute, securing millions in funding over the years, yet his extensive travel to China and the institute's partnerships with the WIV have drawn criticism. Former White House National Security Council member Brian Cavanaugh remarked that such collaborations with the WIV, which has been involved in classified research for the Chinese military, are alarming.
Despite the University of Minnesota's insistence on having no formal ties to the WIV, the revelations of ongoing research partnerships and funding from Chinese sources highlight a troubling nexus of U.S. and Chinese scientific collaboration that may undermine national security.