(CNN) The attorney representing Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe confirmed Wednesday that the governor is the subject of a federal investigation.

James W. Cooper told CNN that federal officials informed him they are looking into McAuliffe's private business ties before he ran for governor. They are specifically exploring whether he violated the Foreign Agent Registration Act, which requires someone to inform the federal government if they plan to lobby on behalf of another country hoping to influence the domestic or foreign policies of the United States.

"Investigation is the correct word, but I have been told by the government what they are investigating and what they aren't," Cooper said. "They have told me it is about conduct during his time as a private citizen."

Cooper says he reached out directly to Justice Department officials in the wake of the CNN report that revealed that McAuliffe was under investigation and that at least part of the probe related to campaign donations from Chinese businessman Wang Wenliang and his company, West Legend.

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