In a surprising turn of events, Democratic Representative Jamaal Bowman from New York has been charged with pulling a fire alarm in a House of Representatives building during a government shutdown threat. The incident occurred on September 30, and Bowman’s arraignment is scheduled for Thursday morning.
According to an arrest warrant filed by U.S. Capitol Police Supervisory Special Agent Joseph McAtee, authorities were notified at 12:05 p.m. that a fire alarm had been pulled inside the Cannon House Office Building on the second floor. When questioned by Capitol Police agents, Bowman admitted to knowing about the fire alarm. He explained that he was in a rush due to ongoing votes and believed the door leading to Independence Ave would be open.
Bowman claimed that he saw a sign next to the nearby doors reading “emergency exit only push to open.” Thinking it was the correct door, he pushed it and pulled the lever next to it, which turned out to be the fire alarm. He stated that he did not intend to cause a fire alarm or disrupt any Congressional proceedings. After being informed of his rights, Bowman requested a lawyer and declined to provide any further statements.
The incident occurred as Republicans began voting on a stopgap bill to avert a government shutdown. Security camera footage reviewed by Capitol Police allegedly showed Bowman attempting to open both doors before pulling the fire alarm and then walking away.
Bowman has expressed relief at the quick resolution of the case. He mentioned that he has reached a plea agreement with prosecutors, which requires him to pay a $1,000 fine and stay out of trouble for three months. The representative emphasized that his actions were a lapse of judgment and not a conscious decision to do something wrong.
At the time of the incident, Bowman’s chief of staff clarified that the congressman did not realize pulling the fire alarm would trigger a building-wide alarm as he was rushing to make an urgent vote. Bowman has expressed regret for any confusion caused.
This incident has drawn attention due to its timing amidst the government shutdown threat and ongoing political tensions. The case will likely be closely monitored by both supporters and critics of the Democratic representative.
