Michael McCaul Says CCP Has No Role in Dalai Lama's Successor

Rep. Michael McCaul (R) renewed his support for protecting the Dalai Lama's right to determine his own succession, saying the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) should have no role in selecting Tibet's next spiritual leader.

What did McCaul say?

Rep. McCaul reiterated his support for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people, accusing the Chinese Communist Party of attempting to control the succession of Tibet's highest spiritual leader in a post on X.

Rep. Michael McCaul: "As China ramps up its efforts to choose & control the Dalai Lama's successor, the US stands with His Holiness & the Tibetan people. When I met him, he proudly told me, 'I will not be reborn in China, but in freedom.' My legislation reinforces that the CCP has no role in the matter."

The comments build on legislation McCaul has championed in Congress, affirming that the Dalai Lama's succession is a religious matter to be determined by Tibetan Buddhist leaders-not the Chinese government.

What legislation is McCaul supporting?

During a June committee hearing, McCaul recalled meeting the Dalai Lama in India in 2024.

McCaul said Congress should ensure U.S. policy recognizes only the succession process established by the Dalai lama and senior Tibetan Buddhist leaders.

He also argued that protecting the independence of the succession process is both a religious freedom issue and a national security concern.

McCaul marks the Dalai Lama's 91st birthday.

McCaul also honored the Dalai Lama on his 91st birthday, praising his resilience despite decades of persecution.

Rep. McCaul: "Despite the ongoing persecution, oppression, and unspeakable violence at the hands of the CCP, the Dalai Lama maintains inner peace and continues to preach compassion."

Rep. McCaul continued: "Thank you for inspiring us all. Happy 91st birthday!"

The Bottom Line

Rep. Michael McCaul is continuing his push to ensure the United States recognizes the Dalai Lama's succession as a religious decision made by Tibetan Buddhist leaders, while reaffirming his support for the Tibetan people and criticizing China's efforts to influence the selection of the next Dalai Lama.