The U.S. Capitol Police have opened an investigation into Rep. Andy Harris’ (R-MD) reported attempt to bring a firearm into the House chamber before he set off the metal detectors at the entrance on Thursday.
“One security official present saw a firearm on the person of Rep. Harris and relayed that to his superiors,” a Capitol official said in a statement to multiple outlets. “To be clear, Rep. Harris did not enter the Floor.”
The Huffington Post reported on Thursday that a police officer found a gun on Harris’ person with a hand held metal detector after the GOP lawmaker set off the magnetometer as he was trying to enter the chamber for a vote earlier in the day.
Capitol Police spokesperson Eva Malecki told the Washington Post that the agency is “investigating the matter.” NBC News also reported on the investigation.
Harris’s chief of staff, Bryan Shuy, told FOX45 that “for security reasons, the Congressman never confirms whether he nor anyone else he’s with are carrying a firearm for self-defense” because “his and his family’s lives have been threatened by someone who has been released awaiting trial.”
“As a matter of public record, he has a Maryland Handgun Permit,” Shuy said. “And the congressman always complies with the House metal detectors and wanding. The Congressman has never carried a firearm on the House floor.”
Acting Sergeant at Arms for the House Timothy Blodgett had the metal detectors installed at the entrance after a violent mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters ransacked the Capitol building.
Several Republicans have flouted the security screening, prompting House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) to push for a fine of $5000 for lawmakers who refuse to comply with the new security measures.
