Rep. Bowman Apologizes, Says Pulling Fire Alarm Not an Attempt to Delay Votes

Rep. Jamaal Bowman, R-N.Y., has apologized for pulling a fire alarm in the Capitol complex during House votes on a measure to extend funding for 45 days to prevent a government shutdown on Saturday.

Following the incident, Bowman faced a massive backlash from Republicans demanding that he be reprimanded and removed from office for interrupting an official proceeding and committing a federal offense.

He was also accused of intentionally setting off the alarm in an attempt to delay votes as Democrats were hoping for more time to review the bill Republicans had proposed.

"Today, as I was rushing to make a vote, I came to a door that is usually open for votes but today would not open," Bowman said in a statement.

"I am embarrassed to admit that I activated the fire alarm, mistakenly thinking it would open the door. I regret this and sincerely apologize for any confusion this caused. But I want to be very clear, this was not me, in any way, trying to delay any vote."

The fire alarm caused an evacuation of the Cannon House building.

Despite the interruption, the House and Senate were able to pass the bill and prevent a shutdown.

Following the incident, members of the House Administrative Committee said they were investigating.

Bowman said he met with the United States Capitol Police and Sergeant-at-Arms and explained the situation, at their request.

"My hope is that no one will make more of this than it was," Bowman said. "I am working hard everyday, including today, to do my job, to do it well, and deliver for my constituents."

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., called the incident an "embarrassment," and suggested the House Ethics Committee investigate.