U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman has found himself in a particularly interesting position.
On Saturday, September 30, Bowman was accused of intentionally pulling the fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building before members of Congress were scheduled to vote on a stopgap measure that would avoid a federal government shutdown. A spokesperson for Bowman denied the accusations levied his way and apologized for “any confusion” he may have caused.
“Congressman Bowman did not realize he would trigger a building alarm as he was rushing to make an urgent vote,” a spokesperson for Bowman said.
“The Congressman regrets any confusion.”
Ultimately, the stopgap measure was approved by a vote of 335-91 vote. However, members of the Republican Party do not buy Bowman’s explanation and would like to see him penalized.
“This is serious,” Rep. Kevin McCarthy said during a press conference on Saturday, September 30.
“This should not go without punishment.”
In the meantime, the stopgap measure will make its way to the U.S. Senate for a vote in the near future. As that happens, McCarthy said he plans to speak with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries about the matter.
