Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai, 71, was arrested and his newsroom raided by police Monday, in the semi-autonomous nation’s latest enforcement of China’s new national security law. Lai has been an outspoken, pro-democracy figure and regularly criticizes China’s authoritarian rule and Hong Kong’s government. He was released on bail on Wednesday.
“The Chinese Communist Party fears Jimmy Lai because he dares to speak truth to power," Hawley told Fox. "That’s why they’re trying to silence him, just like they’re trying to silence Americans and anyone else who doesn’t toe the party line. Jimmy Lai’s arrest should be a wakeup call for everyone."
He added: "It is time for free nations to stand together with Jimmy Lai, with Hong Kong, and against the CCP’s tyranny.”
The Missouri Republican also spoke out about being sanctioned by China and said such measures will not deter him from continuing to stand up for America.
"#China announces it is sanctioning me in retaliation for speaking out against #ChineseCommunistParty and defending America’s interests," he tweeted on Monday. "Retaliate all you want. I’m not backing down."