Xi Jinping Could Seize Taiwan 'Without A Shot Fired,' Says Michael McCaul

Michael McCaul, a Republican and the House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman, warned that Xi Jinping might take control of Taiwan without resorting to military action.

What Happened: McCaul, who was last week on a visit to Taipei, cautioned that Beijing will likely attempt to meddle in the island nation's upcoming election, reiterating the worries of experts that 2024 could play a crucial role in China’s efforts to seize control of Taiwan. 

China could take over Taiwan in the next election "without a shot fired," McCaul told NBC News in response to a question about if the Taiwanese people wanted a military confrontation.

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"Now there's a political debate here, the two different parties. One party wants to talk to China. President Tsai's party does not want to be a part of China," he said. 

"I think the next elections in next January are going to be extremely important because I do believe with the former President Ma in China right now, China's going to try to influence this next election and take over the island without a shot fired."

Ma Ying Jeou, Taiwan's ex-President, traveled to China in late March for a 12-day visit, which coincided with the Tsai-McCarthy meeting in California. Jeou party favors fostering stronger relations with China and has warned that “our administration continues to lead Taiwan to danger.”

Commenting on Taiwan's military capability, McCaul said, "They're not where they need to be."

 "If we're going to have deterrence for peace, we need to get these weapons into Taiwan."

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