Texas Teen Arrested in Alleged Plot to Assassinate Congressman Self

Federal authorities have arrested a 17-year-old Texas boy accused of plotting to assassinate Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, and carry out a separate terrorist attack in North Texas on behalf of ISIS, according to a local report. The teenager, whose identity has not been publicly released, was taken into custody on Oct. 5 after allegedly acquiring a firearm, federal law enforcement sources told WFAA.

"I am grateful to the FBI and law enforcement for stopping this threat," Self said in a statement posted on X. "My family and I are safe, and I remain focused on serving the people of Texas’ 3rd District. Preserving our constitutional republic from radical Islam means accepting the costs that come with it—name-calling, threats, and worse."

Self added, "Our Founders believed this country was worth the sacrifice. I served 25 years in the military because defending freedom was worth the sacrifice. This only strengthens my resolve. I will not back down."

According to WFAA, the teenager allegedly planned to target Self at an event last Saturday. Federal investigators also believe the suspect was planning a separate attack for ISIS, the outlet reported. When asked if his public stances on Islamic extremism might have made him a target, Self said he could not be certain.

In September, Self introduced a nonbinding congressional resolution denouncing Sharia law and opposing its implementation in the United States. He also co-founded the "Sharia-Free America Caucus" last year with Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, aiming to oppose the influence of Sharia law. Self is currently seeking a third term in Congress in the upcoming midterm elections.

The FBI and Capitol Police were involved in the operation, though Self indicated he had limited knowledge of the specifics of the investigation, stating, "The FBI, through the Capitol Police, only tells us so much." He did note, "I understand that they've known about this kid for a while."