breaking news Hard-liner Who Led Crackdown on Protests Is Favorite to Run Hong Kong lastminute news

HONG KONG — John Lee rose through the ranks of Hong Kong 's security services, earning a reputation as a hard – liner by crushing the city 's 2019 protest movement and curbing dissent as the city 's No. 2 official. Now, he is widely expected to be Beijing 's choice to take over as Hong Kong 's leader, an appointment that would reflect the central government's emphasis on reinforcing its grip on the once- restive city , even at the expense of its status as a global financial center. Mr. Lee said Wednesday he had submitted his resignation as…