Randy Neugebauer: 'I exclaimed the phrase "it's a baby killer"'

The hunt for the "baby killer!" shouter is over. Congressman Randy Neugebauer, a Texas Republican, today came forward and admitted that he was the one yelling yesterday at Congressman Bart Stupak, a Michigan Democrat, as Stupak gave a speech to the House of Representatives. Neugebauer made a sort-of apology: "Last night was the climax of weeks and months of debate on a health care bill that my constituents fear and do not support." He added: "In the heat and emotion of the debate, I exclaimed the phrase 'it's a baby killer' in reference to the agreement reached by the Democratic leadership. While I remain heartbroken over the passage of this bill and the tragic consequences it will have for the unborn, I deeply regret that my actions were mistakenly interpreted as a direct reference to Congressman Stupak himself. I have apologized to Mr. Stupak and also apologize to my colleagues for the manner in which I expressed my disappointment about the bill. The House Chamber is a place of decorum and respect. The timing and tone of my comment last night was inappropriate." 

Neugebauer's remarks followed a day of intense debate and voting on the health care reform bill. Stupak, who opposes abortion, voted for the bill after President Barack Obama issued an executive order essentially banning the use of federal funds in the bill for abortions. Read more about how Neugebauer's yell triggered a day of speculation.