FBI Detains Teen Alleged in Plot to Kill Congressman Keith Self

North Texas Congressman Keith Self is in the middle of a competitive re-election campaign, and federal authorities have just confirmed that a local teenager was arrested for allegedly plotting to kill him. This development marks a significant escalation in the security concerns surrounding the race for Texas' third congressional district.

Rep. Self, a Republican seeking a third term, stated that his team learned of the situation through U.S. Capitol Police on October 6. The FBI had already taken the suspect into custody on October 5. Campaign officials indicated that investigators believed the 17-year-old from McKinney had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. The specific target of the alleged attack was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17. This event was set to feature former Dallas Cowboys players and other high-profile guests.

According to the campaign, federal agents told the team that the teen was also planning a broader terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS. While the FBI Dallas office has not yet provided additional public details, the congressman said his team responded by increasing their situational awareness. Self noted that his background in military combat zones helped him remain calm during the crisis. He explained that while others might panic, he focused on determining if the suspect was a lone wolf and ensuring his team stayed vigilant.

Self’s wife, who spent 25 years as a military spouse, also took the threat seriously. The congressman acknowledged that he has received threats in the past, but this was the first time an arrest followed. Despite the danger, Self attended the chili cook-off as planned. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans at the event, noting that nothing happened and the gathering was enjoyable.

This incident occurs while Self has taken a strong public stance against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a nonbinding resolution denouncing the practice and affirming the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution. The political landscape in his district is also charged by local issues. McKinney, which is part of his district, recently saw a unanimous city council vote to approve expansion plans for a local mosque. That decision followed hours of contentious public comment and led to an effort to recall several council members.

Evan Hunt, Self’s opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot on social media. The teen’s identity has not been released as the investigation continues. Self has continued his campaign activities, including poll greeting voters this morning. He stated that the incident will not deter him from alerting the American people to what he views as a concerning political ideology.

The congressman plans to continue meeting voters and campaigning as usual. His team remains watchful but committed to finishing the job. The investigation is ongoing, and the FBI is still gathering information about the extent of the plot.