The House Ethics Committee has decided not to investigate Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) for triggering a false fire alarm in a House office building. This decision follows an incident at the end of September, during a crucial government spending vote. Despite the disruption caused by the alarm, which resulted in the evacuation of the Cannon House Office Building and a subsequent Capitol Police investigation, the committee declined to launch an inquiry into Bowman’s conduct.

According to a statement from Ethics Chairman Michael Guest (R-MS) and ranking member Susan Wild (D-PA), a majority of the panel’s members “did not agree” to establish an Investigative Subcommittee or report to the House regarding Bowman’s conduct.

Bowman, a former middle school principal and member of the leftist “Squad,” pleaded guilty last month to a misdemeanor count of falsely pulling a fire alarm. He agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and serve three months probation, in addition to issuing a formal apology to the U.S. Capitol Police.

“I really regret that this caused so much confusion and that people had to evacuate, and I just caused a disturbance. I hate that. It’s pretty embarrassing,” Bowman said after his plea hearing, as reported by The Associated Press.

Bowman denied any intention of delaying the government spending vote by triggering the alarm. He claimed he was attempting to get to a vote urgently, and “mistakenly” thought activating the fire alarm would open a door that was “usually open for votes” but on that weekend day “would not open.”

House Administration Chairman Bryan Steil (R-WI) dismissed Bowman’s explanation, citing findings by law enforcement. “Rep. Bowman’s excuse does not pass the sniff test. After pulling the fire alarm, Rep. Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol Police officers and had every opportunity to alert USCP of his mistake,” Steil commented.

Steil expressed gratitude towards the U.S. Capitol Police for their quick response to the incident and encouraged the Ethics Committee to further investigate the matter. However, the committee has chosen not to proceed with an investigation, leaving some to question whether this decision is in the best interest of maintaining order and accountability within the House.

Actions such as these erode the confidence of the American people. It is essential to uphold high standards of conduct within our government, regardless of party affiliation. This incident serves as a reminder that every action has consequences, and those in positions of power should be held accountable for their actions.

Source: Daily Wire