Federal authorities 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, who has not been publicly identified, was arrested on Oct. 5 after acquiring a firearm, according to federal law enforcement sources cited by 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,” he continued. “Preserving our constitutional republic from radical Islam means accepting the costs that come with it—name-calling, threats, and worse.”
“Our Founders believed this country was worth the sacrifice,” Self added. “I served 25 years in the military because defending freedom was worth the sacrifice. This only strengthens my resolve. I will not back down.”
Self spoke about the situation to CBS News Texas following the arrest.
“When we knew about it, they had him,” Self said, admitting he had limited knowledge of what went on.
“The FBI, through the Capitol Police, only tells us so much,” he told CBS, although he did note, “I understand that they’ve known about this kid for a while.”
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 on behalf of ISIS, the outlet reported.
When asked by WFAA whether his public positions on Islamic extremism might explain why he was targeted, Self said he could not be certain.
“If it’s ISIS related, you kind of have to believe that. I can’t prove that. I don’t know that for sure,” Self said.
Last month, 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, with the goal of opposing the influence of Sharia law. Self is seeking a third term in Congress in November’s midterm elections. Fox News Digital has reached out to Self and the FBI for comment.
