Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has announced a significant legal victory, securing a $24 billion judgment against the Chinese Communist Party. This decision comes as a response to the allegations that China was responsible for the outbreak and subsequent global spread of COVID-19.

Attorney General Bailey emphasized the importance of this ruling: “This is a landmark victory for Missouri and the United States in the fight to hold China accountable for unleashing COVID-19 on the world.” He noted that despite China's absence in court, efforts will be made to collect the awarded sum by targeting Chinese-owned assets, including farmland within Missouri.

The Federal court found sufficient evidence to support Missouri's claims that China played a role in causing and worsening the pandemic's impact on its residents. This judgment builds upon a lawsuit initiated by former Attorney General Eric Schmitt in 2020. The suit accused China of obstructing access to essential medical supplies during critical times of need.

Moving forward, Missouri plans to enforce this judgment actively. Collaboration with federal authorities may be necessary to identify and seize assets linked to China, highlighting concerns about economic stability and national security.