Dying Pastor John Cao Trapped in China as Advocates Push for Trump-Xi Summit Intervention

John Cao spent more than two decades building schools and delivering humanitarian aid to children along the China-Myanmar border. In 2017, Chinese authorities detained him while crossing the border and sentenced him to seven years in prison on charges of organizing illegal border crossings, a designation typically applied to human traffickers.

Cao served his full sentence and was released on March 5, 2024. But Chinese officials have refused to issue him a passport, citing that he is "under control." Police installed cameras at his mother's home in Changsha, where he now lives, and plainclothes officers often accompany him when he travels.

In April 2026, Cao was hospitalized with severe pain in his legs and back. Doctors diagnosed him with stage 4 prostate cancer that has spread to his spine. He has since opted against surgery, choosing to rely on his faith. His church community has covered his medical expenses because he has no insurance.

Cao has a wife, two sons, and a grandchild in the United States. He has met his grandchild only through video calls.

The American Center for Law and Justice and ChinaAid are leading a petition campaign to gather 100,000 signatures urging the Trump administration to negotiate for Cao's passport at the September 24 summit between President Trump and President Xi. Advocates point to the recent release of Pastor Ezra Jin, secured after a direct request from Trump to Xi, as a precedent for Cao's case.

Under Chinese law, authorities may withhold a passport for up to three years after a prison release, though they retain discretion to issue one earlier. Cao's supporters argue that his terminal illness and his status as a U.S. lawful permanent resident make his case urgent.

Christianity Today reported on September 16 that Cao's condition is worsening and that he has expressed a strong desire to return to the United States to spend his remaining time with his family.