1988 marked his first foray into politics, when he was appointed a member to the Provincial Party Standing Committee for Shaanxi Province.

He was the party chief of the provincial capital Xi'an, the Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Committee of Shaanxi Province.

In 1998, An became Chairman of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

While this position was considered a largely ceremonial role, An used his experience and clout to influence high-level politicians to put forth a comprehensive plan to prevent flooding on the Wei River.

He also advocated for a series of other causes, including mentally challenged children, rural incomes, national oil strategy, and urban poverty.