FBI Detains Teen in Plot Against Texas Legislator

The FBI arrested a 17-year-old from McKinney on Oct. 5, federal investigators confirmed, after the teen allegedly plotted to assassinate U.S. Rep. Keith Self. The Republican lawmaker represents Texas’ third congressional district and is currently seeking his third term in office. Campaign officials first learned of the detention through U.S. Capitol Police on Oct. 6, prompting an immediate review of the congressman's security protocols as early voting continues across the state.

According to information shared with the campaign, federal agents had been monitoring the suspect, who they believed had become radicalized. Investigators indicated the teen was planning a terrorist attack on behalf of the Islamic State. The specific target for the alleged plot was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for Oct. 17. That event featured former Dallas Cowboys players and several high-profile guests. The FBI Dallas office has not yet provided additional details in response to media inquiries.

Rep. Self stated that his team increased their situational awareness after learning of the threat, though he noted he already maintained a substantial security detail. Drawing on his military background, the congressman described a measured response to the news. He explained that his experience in combat zones allowed him to remain calm rather than panicked. He and his team focused on determining whether the suspect was a lone wolf or part of a larger group.

Self noted that his wife, a military spouse for 25 years, understood the inherent risks of public service. While the congressman has received threats in the past, this was the first instance where the danger escalated to an arrest. He emphasized that the seriousness of the incident warranted a heightened level of caution, distinguishing it from previous, less formal warnings.

Despite the alleged plot, Self attended the Oct. 17 fundraiser as planned. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans at the event, reporting that it proceeded without incident. He has since continued his campaign activities, including poll greeting and voter outreach. He stated that the threat will not deter him from campaigning and alerting the public to what he views as a significant political ideology.

The arrest coincides with Self’s prominent stance against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a nonbinding concurrent resolution denouncing the practice and asserting that the U.S. Constitution remains the supreme law of the land. His district includes McKinney, where local debate over a new mosque expansion has drawn considerable attention. In August, the McKinney City Council unanimously approved a site plan for a local mosque expansion following contentious public comment. A recall effort for several council members followed that vote.

Evan Hunt, Self’s opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged assassination plot in a social media post. The teen’s identity has not been publicly released while the investigation remains ongoing.