Keith Self: Texas Congressman Campaigns On After FBI Seizes 17-Year-Old in Assassination Plot

A 17-year-old from McKinney, Texas, was detained by federal agents on October 5 after allegedly plotting to assassinate U.S. Representative Keith Self. The congressman, a Republican currently seeking a third term in office, confirmed the details to NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. His campaign manager stated that the team learned of the arrest through U.S. Capitol Police on October 6. Investigators indicated the teen had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance.

According to the campaign, authorities believed the suspect was planning a terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS. The intended target was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17. The event was to feature former Dallas Cowboys players and several high-profile guests. The FBI Dallas office has not yet responded to requests for additional information regarding the investigation.

Representative Self said his background in the military helped him manage the situation with composure. He noted that while he had received threats before, this was the first time they led to an arrest. He emphasized that his wife, a military spouse for 25 years, understood the risks involved. The pair increased their situational awareness but continued with their daily schedules.

Self attended the targeted fundraiser as planned on October 17. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans at the event. He stated that nothing happened during the function. The congressman said his team remained vigilant but did not cancel any activities. He continued polling and meeting voters throughout the early voting period.

The arrest highlights the political tensions in Self’s district, which includes McKinney. In August, the McKinney City Council unanimously approved a site plan for a local mosque expansion. The vote followed hours of contentious public comment and was later followed by an effort to recall several council members. Self has taken a prominent stance against Sharia law, introducing a nonbinding concurrent resolution in September that opposes its implementation in the United States.

Evan Hunt, Self’s opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot in a social media post. The teen’s identity has not been publicly released as the investigation continues. Self said the incident will not deter him from campaigning. He plans to continue alerting the American people to the political ideology he believes poses a threat. The congressman remains focused on his mission to represent the third congressional district.

The campaign team said they are taking the threat seriously. They are monitoring the situation closely while maintaining their public presence. Self said he understands the importance of staying visible to voters. The investigation is ongoing, and the FBI is working to determine the full scope of the plot. The congressman remains optimistic about his chances in the election.