Teen Arrested in Connection with Plot Targeting North Texas Congressman

A 17-year-old resident of McKinney has been arrested by the FBI in connection with an alleged conspiracy to assassinate Representative Keith Self, a Republican seeking a third term to represent Texas' third congressional district. Campaign officials for the congressman confirmed the details of the investigation to NBC 5.

According to the campaign manager, the arrest took place on October 5. The following day, October 6, the congressman's team was notified of the apprehension by U.S. Capitol Police. Investigators reportedly believe the teenager had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance at the time.

The allegations suggest a specific target was identified: a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17. This event, which was attended by former Dallas Cowboys players and other high-profile guests, was allegedly intended as the site for a planned attack on behalf of ISIS. The FBI's Dallas office has not yet provided additional information regarding the case.

In response to the threat, Self said he increased his security posture. "So at that point we upped our profile and we're a little more aware," Self stated, adding, "So we did change our situational awareness around us." The congressman noted that his military background, which includes multiple deployments to combat zones, helped him approach the situation with composure. He explained, "I understood since the arrest had already taken place, we just needed to be aware of was he a lone wolf or not."

Self's wife, a military spouse for 25 years, also understood the potential risks involved, he said. The congressman added that while he has received threats in the past, "nothing has risen to the level of an arrest," distinguishing this case by its seriousness. Despite the alleged plot, Self attended the fundraiser as planned, and he has continued his campaign activities, including meeting voters at polling locations.

The congressman has recently taken a prominent public stance against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a nonbinding resolution denouncing its implementation in the United States, asserting that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land. His district, which includes McKinney, has been the site of contentious debate over local plans for a mosque expansion. Evan Hunt, Self's political opponent, also condemned the alleged assassination plot on social media. The teenager's identity has not been released as the investigation continues.