An active-duty Air Force major, Jason Watson, was arrested on the steps of the Capitol. He called for the impeachment of President Donald Trump while in uniform. The arrest took place after a news conference where Watson argued for the removal of both Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
The event, organized by the Removal Coalition, aimed to lobby for Trump’s impeachment. Representative Al Green, known for introducing articles of impeachment against Trump, attended. Watson expressed support for Green’s efforts, stating, “I’m here with him because Rep. Green is the only member of Congress that has demonstrated the courage and conviction to force a vote on articles of impeachment.” He emphasized the need for Congress to act and urged others to engage in civil resistance to prompt action.
Watson clarified that he is not a Democrat and does not align with Green’s policies. Green’s office did not comment on Watson’s arrest. Capitol Police explained that demonstrations on the House Steps are generally illegal unless accompanied by a Member of Congress. After Green left, officers ordered Watson to stop his demonstration. When he refused, they arrested him.
Watson faced charges of “Crowding, Obstructing, and Incommoding.” Meanwhile, the Capitol Police noted that protests are permissible in other areas of the Capitol grounds. Members of the military, including Watson, face stricter rules about protesting due to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. It prohibits the use of “contemptuous language” towards high-ranking officials like the President and Vice President.
An Air Force spokesperson stated, “Service members must comply with all laws, regulations, and policies governing conduct and the wear of the uniform. All Department of the Air Force personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, both on and off duty.” Service members must avoid participating in political activities while in uniform.
Watson criticized Trump’s and Vance’s actions in Venezuela and Iran, describing them as unconstitutional and citing violations of the War Powers Clause. He blamed these actions for the deaths of 13 service members and injuries to many others. He argued that these issues warranted impeaching and removing both Trump and Vance. Watson also labeled the administration’s immigration policies as unconstitutional.
The Removal Coalition did not comment on the incident, and efforts to reach Watson were unsuccessful.
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