Republican Rep. Keith Self of Texas said Wednesday that he and his family are unharmed following the arrest of a 17-year-old accused of plotting to assassinate him. The congressman expressed gratitude to federal and local law enforcement for thwarting the threat.
“I am grateful to the FBI and law enforcement for stopping this threat. My family and I are safe, and I remain focused on serving the people of Texas’ 3rd District,” Self wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Self, a retired Army officer who served 25 years in the military, framed the incident as part of the broader sacrifices required to defend the constitutional republic. “Preserving our constitutional republic from radical Islam means accepting the costs that come with it—name-calling, threats, and worse,” he said. “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 Dallas-Fort Worth television station WFAA, the teenager was arrested earlier this month after acquiring a firearm. Federal law enforcement sources told the outlet that the suspect had planned an attack on Self at an event scheduled for the weekend, and also intended to carry out a separate terrorist strike in north Texas on behalf of the Islamic State group (ISIS). The suspect’s name has not been publicly released, and he remains in federal custody.
The alleged plot comes amid a climate of heightened political violence and threats. Recent years have seen attempts on the life of former President Donald Trump and the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The incident also echoes threats that have forced other lawmakers to relocate for safety.
Law enforcement officials have not disclosed details about how the plot was uncovered, but the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading the investigation. The case underscores the ongoing challenge of domestic and international terrorism, particularly involving minors radicalized online.
Self, who represents a district that includes parts of Collin County, has been a vocal supporter of strong national security measures. His statement did not specify whether he plans to alter his public schedule, but he reiterated his commitment to his constituents.
“I remain focused on serving the people of Texas’ 3rd District,” he said. “This only strengthens my resolve.”
The arrest has drawn attention from both parties, with several Texas lawmakers offering support for Self. The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of current threat assessment and intervention programs for at-risk youth.
