Teen arrested over plot to kill congressman

A 17-year-old from McKinney was arrested by the FBI on October 5 following an alleged plot to assassinate Rep. Keith Self. The Republican representative is currently seeking a third term in office for Texas’ third congressional district. While the teen’s identity has not been released, federal investigators believe the suspect was radicalized and had been under surveillance. Officials indicated the plan was connected to ISIS and targeted a specific public event rather than a general political figure.

The congressman’s team first learned of the detention through the U.S. Capitol Police on October 6. According to campaign officials, investigators told them the teen intended to strike during a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans. This event was scheduled for October 17 and featured former Cowboys players alongside other high-profile guests. The timing placed the suspected attack during the early voting period across the state, adding urgency to the security measures implemented by Self’s staff.

Rep. Self stated that he increased his situational awareness immediately after receiving the news. He noted that his background in military combat zones helped him remain calm during the initial response. Self explained that while some colleagues might have panicked, he focused on determining if the suspect was a lone wolf or part of a larger group. His wife, who served as a military spouse for 25 years, also took the threat seriously given her experience with potential risks in that role.

The lawmaker acknowledged that he had received threats in the past, but this incident marked the first time an arrest was made. He described the situation as distinct from previous warnings due to the level of seriousness conveyed by investigators. Self emphasized that the team understood the potential for a significant incident and adjusted their security posture accordingly to ensure safety while maintaining their campaign schedule.

Despite the alleged assassination plot, Self attended the targeted fundraiser as planned. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans at the event, noting that nothing unusual occurred. Since then, he has continued his reelection efforts, including polling and greeting voters. He expressed determination to keep working and alerting the public to his political positions, stating that the threat would not deter his activities.

The incident occurs against a backdrop of intense debate regarding religious and political issues in Self’s district. In September, he introduced a nonbinding resolution denouncing Sharia law and affirming the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution. Additionally, McKinney has seen significant controversy over the expansion of a local mosque, which the city council approved unanimously in August after contentious public comment. This decision was followed by efforts to recall several council members.

Self’s opponent in the midterm election, Evan Hunt, condemned the plot on social media. The FBI Dallas office has not yet responded to requests for further information. The investigation remains ongoing, and the teen’s identity is being withheld for the time being. Campaign officials continue to monitor the situation as the election process moves forward.