On June 18, 2026, federal authorities arrested a Mexican national, identified as 24-year-old José Luis Hernández, who was enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, for allegedly plotting a terrorist attack on the White House. According to court documents unsealed on June 19, Hernández had been under surveillance for several months after posting extremist content online.
The FBI stated that Hernández had acquired materials to construct an explosive device and had conducted reconnaissance near the White House perimeter. He was charged with attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization. No injuries were reported, and the plot was disrupted before any attack could occur.
This case has reignited debates over immigration and national security, with officials emphasizing that DACA recipients undergo background checks. Hernández's attorney has not commented on the allegations. The investigation is ongoing, and a court hearing is scheduled for July 2026.
