Rep. Keith Self: FBI Arrests Teen in Alleged Plot to Assassinate Lawmaker

A 17-year-old resident of McKinney faces federal charges after allegedly plotting to assassinate U.S. Representative Keith Self, a North Texas politician currently seeking a third term in office.

Campaign officials confirmed to NBC 5 that the FBI arrested the teenager on Oct. 5. The congressman’s team learned of the detention the following day when U.S. Capitol Police notified them. Investigators believed the teen had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Officials stated the suspect was also planning a broader terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS.

The primary target of the alleged plot was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for Oct. 17. The event was to feature former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests. Self’s team said they were informed the teen intended to target the congressman at this specific gathering.

Self told reporters that his background in the military helped him remain composed upon receiving the news. He noted that while others might panic, he understood the tactical implications of an arrest already having occurred. His wife, a military spouse for 25 years, also took the threat seriously given her experience. Self acknowledged he has received threats before, but noted this instance was different because it resulted in an actual arrest.

In response to the news, Self’s team increased their situational awareness and security presence. The congressman stated that although he already had plenty of security, they upped their profile to be more vigilant. This comes as early voting continues across the state.

Despite the alleged threat, Self attended the chili cook-off as planned. He reported judging 19 different chilies and three pots of beans without incident. He said the experience was delightful and that nothing happened to disrupt the event.

The congressman has continued his campaign activities, including poll greeting and meeting with voters daily. He stated that the plot would not deter him from alerting the American people to what he views as a concerning political ideology. His opponent in the midterm election, Evan Hunt, also condemned the alleged assassination plot on social media.

The arrest coincides with Self’s recent legislative efforts against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a nonbinding concurrent resolution denouncing the implementation of Sharia law in the United States. The resolution asserts that the U.S. Constitution remains the supreme law of the land.

The congressman’s district includes McKinney, where a debate over a new mosque has drawn significant attention. In August, the McKinney City Council unanimously approved a site plan for a local mosque expansion, citing compliance with development rules. That vote followed hours of contentious public comment and was later followed by an effort to recall several council members. The teen’s identity has not been released publicly as the investigation continues, and the FBI Dallas office has not yet responded to requests for further information.