Teen arrested over alleged plot to kill Texas congressman

A 17-year-old resident of McKinney has been taken into federal custody on suspicion of planning to assassinate Texas Representative Keith Self. Campaign officials confirmed the details of the case this week, noting that the Republican lawmaker is currently seeking a third term in his congressional seat. The incident has prompted the office to increase security measures as early voting continues across the state.

The FBI arrested the teenager on October 5. Rep. Self’s team learned of the detention the following day through the U.S. Capitol Police. Investigators told the campaign that the teen had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Officials indicated that the suspect was planning a terrorist attack in the name of ISIS. The target was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17, an event that featured former Cowboys players and other notable guests.

Rep. Self stated that his background in the military helped him remain calm after learning of the threat. He explained that while the situation was serious, it did not cause him as much distress as it might have for colleagues without combat experience. His wife, who served as a military spouse for 25 years, also understood the risks involved. The congressman acknowledged that he had received threats before, but this was the first time an arrest had followed.

Despite the alleged plot, Self attended the fundraiser as planned. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans at the event. No incident occurred during the gathering. The congressman has continued his campaign activities, including poll greeting voters this morning. He stated that the threat will not stop him from working to alert the public to what he views as a concerning political ideology.

The arrest coincides with Rep. Self’s recent efforts to address Sharia law in the United States. In September, he introduced a nonbinding resolution denouncing the practice and affirming the U.S. Constitution as the supreme law. His district includes McKinney, where a new mosque expansion plan has sparked local debate. The city council approved the site plan in August after hours of public comment, leading to a subsequent recall effort against several members.

Evan Hunt, Self’s opponent in the midterm election, condemned the plot on social media. The identity of the teen has not been released to the public while the investigation continues. NBC 5 has reached out to the FBI Dallas office for further information but is still awaiting a response.

The campaign manager emphasized that the team has become more vigilant in its daily operations. They are monitoring the situation closely to determine if the suspect was acting alone. The congressman plans to keep meeting with voters and fulfilling his duties in the district.