Assassination Plot: FBI Detains Teen Targeting Congressman Self

Federal authorities have detained a 17-year-old from McKinney who allegedly orchestrated a plan to kill Rep. Keith Self.

Campaign officials confirmed the news to NBC 5 on Wednesday, noting that the teenager was taken into custody by the FBI on October 5. The congressional team learned of the detention through U.S. Capitol Police the following day. Investigators reportedly believed the suspect had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Officials said the teen intended to strike at a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17. The event was set to feature former Dallas Cowboys players and other high-profile guests. The campaign stated that the plot was also linked to a broader terrorist attack planned on behalf of ISIS. As of today, the FBI Dallas office has not yet responded to requests for further details.

Rep. Self, a Republican representing Texas’ third district, is currently seeking a third term. The alleged plot gained attention amid his prominent stance against Sharia law. 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 local debate over a mosque expansion has drawn significant public attention. The city council unanimously approved a site plan for the expansion in August, a move that followed hours of contentious public comment and was later followed by an effort to recall several council members.

Self described his response to the news as measured, citing his military background. He stated that his previous deployments to combat zones helped him remain calm rather than panicked. He noted that his wife, a military spouse for 25 years, also understood the risks involved. While he has received threats before, he emphasized that this incident was unique because it resulted in an arrest. He added that the seriousness of the situation was acknowledged by his team, who increased their security and situational awareness as early voting continues across the state.

Despite the allegations, Self attended the October 17 event as scheduled. He reported judging 19 different chilies and three pots of beans, with no incident occurring. He has continued his campaign activities, including poll greeting, and stated that the plot will not deter him from alerting voters to what he perceives as a political ideology. His opponent in the midterm election, Evan Hunt, also condemned the alleged plot in a social media post. The teen’s identity has not been released publicly as the investigation remains active.

The case is expected to move forward with federal prosecution, though no timeline has been provided. Campaign officials said they will continue to monitor the situation closely while maintaining their schedule of public appearances and voter outreach.