Active-Duty Air Force Officer Arrested for Capitol Protest Demanding President Trump’s Impeachment

An active-duty Air Force officer was placed in custody following his arrest in uniform on the Capitol steps after participating in a news conference where he called for the impeachment, conviction, and removal of President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. The arrest occurred during an event organized by the Removal Coalition, a grassroots advocacy group.

Maj. Jason Watson, who identified himself as a member of the military, was detained by U.S. Capitol Police on suspicion of unlawful demonstration. He addressed the audience while wearing his uniform, asserting that the president and vice president had breached their constitutional duties and sworn oaths. Watson emphasized the need for civil resistance to compel Congress to fulfill its responsibilities, while also criticizing the administration’s immigration policies and foreign interventions in Venezuela and Iran.

After the event, Watson displayed a sign reading “Impeach,” “Convict,” and “Remove” on the House steps before being arrested under accusations of obstructing pedestrian traffic. Police clarified that while demonstrations on the Capitol steps typically require congressional sponsorship, Watson had been initially escorted by a representative and failed to comply with lawful orders to disperse after the sponsor departed.

The Removal Coalition’s founder, Jessica Denson, stated that while the D.C. Attorney General’s office declined to prosecute Watson criminally, he was immediately transferred to Air Force custody. She revealed that Watson had reached out months earlier to ensure his message would not be ignored, coordinating with Representative Al Green, a Texas Democrat who has repeatedly sought Trump’s impeachment. The group delayed disclosing Watson’s military status to prevent interference.

Watson’s attorney, Christopher Mutimer, described the arrest as “a cruel irony” for an officer in uniform voicing constitutional concerns just before the July 4th holiday. Mutimer emphasized that his client faces investigations under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for alleged violations, including making “contemptuous words” against high-ranking officials and wearing his uniform during political activity. Watson is currently detained at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling under restriction.

Defense Secretary Troy E. Meink acknowledged awareness of the incident and reiterated expectations that service members adhere to laws governing political expression while in uniform. Watson’s protest highlighted tensions between military conduct regulations and public dissent, underscoring the legal complexities surrounding active-duty personnel engaging in political advocacy.

Source link