Rep. Keith Self Says FBI Arrest of 17-Year-Old Confirms Threat Was Serious

North Texas Congressman Keith Self confirmed that federal agents arrested a 17-year-old from McKinney on October 5 for allegedly plotting to assassinate him. The Republican, who is currently seeking his third term representing Texas’ third congressional district, stated that the incident was serious enough to warrant an immediate increase in his personal security. His campaign team learned of the detention through the U.S. Capitol Police on October 6, marking the first time a threat against the lawmaker resulted in a formal arrest.

Campaign officials explained that investigators believed the teen had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Reports indicated the suspect was planning a terrorist attack on behalf of the Islamic State. The specific target was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17. This event featured former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests, making it a significant public appearance for the congressman.

Self described his reaction to the news as calm, attributing his composure to his history of deploying into combat zones multiple times. He noted that while many people might panic upon learning someone is trying to kill them, his military background allowed him to focus on whether the suspect was a lone wolf. He added that his wife, a military spouse for 25 years, also understood the risks involved in such situations.

Although the congressman has received threats in the past, he emphasized that this incident was different because it escalated to an arrest. He noted that his team increased their situational awareness and profile in the days following the news. Despite the alleged plot, Self attended the October 17 fundraiser as planned. He said he judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans, and that nothing happened during the event.

The arrest occurs while Self maintains a prominent stance against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a nonbinding concurrent resolution denouncing the practice and asserting that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land. This political position aligns with local debates in McKinney, where the city council recently approved an expansion plan for a local mosque after contentious public comment.

Self said the incident will not deter him from his campaign activities. He continued polling and meeting with voters daily, stating that he wants to alert the American people to what he views as a significant political ideology. His opponent in the midterm election, Evan Hunt, also condemned the plot on social media. The teen’s identity has not been released publicly as the investigation continues, and the FBI Dallas office has not yet provided further details.