She ran a California city. She just admitted she secretly worked for China.

Former Arcadia Mayor Eileen Wang faces up to 10 years in prison after admitting she promoted Chinese government propaganda while in office.

When we elect local leaders, we trust them to look out for our neighborhood. We do not expect them to take orders from a foreign government.

WHAT HAPPENED

Eileen Wang, 58, was the mayor of Arcadia, California. She stepped down from her post earlier this month after federal agents charged her.

On Friday, she stood in a federal court and pleaded guilty. She admitted to acting as an illegal agent for China.

Wang worked to spread Chinese propaganda while leading her city. Prosecutors say she did this without letting the U.S. government know.

What the evidence shows

• Eileen Wang is 58 years old and served as mayor of Arcadia.
• She stepped down from office in early month after federal charges.
• She pleaded guilty on Friday to acting as an illegal foreign agent.
• Wang faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
• Her official sentencing is set for Oct. 6.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

How deep does foreign influence go in our local towns? We often worry about spies in Washington, but local mayors hold real power over our daily lives.

This case makes us ask how many other local leaders might have quiet ties to foreign states. It shows that global politics can reach right into our own town halls.

THE OTHER SIDE

By pleading guilty, Wang has admitted to the crime. Her defense team has not released a statement on why she chose to work with Chinese officials.

While she accepted her guilt, we do not yet know if she will ask for a lighter sentence on Oct. 6 because she spared the public a long trial.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Arcadia needs a new path. The city must rebuild trust with its voters after its top leader admitted to betraying her oath.

Wang will remain free or under court rules until her sentencing on Oct. 6, when a judge will decide how many of the 10 years she must serve.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

What specific propaganda did Wang push to her community?

• Did she receive any money or favors from the Chinese government?
• Are other local officials in California being watched for similar acts?