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NewsNBC Miami PoliticsJuly 2, 2026United States

Air Force Major Arrested at Capitol During Impeachment Protest

An active-duty Air Force major was arrested on the U.S. Capitol steps after holding a news conference to call for the impeachment of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The officer, Jason Watson, was charged with crowding and obstructing after refusing police orders to stop demonstrating in a restricted area.

militaryprotestimpeachmentCapitol PoliceUCMJ
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Why It Matters

The incident highlights the legal restrictions on political expression for active-duty military personnel and the specific regulations governing protests on U.S. Capitol grounds.

Key Facts

  • Jason Watson, an active-duty Air Force major, was arrested on the U.S. Capitol steps on Wednesday afternoon.
  • Watson was charged with 'Crowding, Obstructing, and Incommoding' after refusing police orders to stop a demonstration.
  • Capitol Police stated that public demonstrations are prohibited on the House Steps unless accompanied by a Member of Congress.
  • Watson was initially escorted to the steps by a Member of Congress, but was arrested after the member left the area and Watson refused to stop the demonstration.
  • The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) prohibits military officers from using contemptuous language toward the President and Vice President.
  • Military personnel are prohibited from participating in political activities while in uniform.
  • Watson's protest was organized by the Removal Coalition and attended by Rep. Al Green.
  • Watson cited administration actions in Venezuela and Iran, as well as immigration policies, as grounds for his call for impeachment.

Who's Mentioned

personJD Vance“Vice President of the United States.”other13“Number of service members Watson claimed died due to administration actions.”organizationU.S. Capitol Police“Law enforcement agency that arrested Watson.”personJason Watson“Active-duty Air Force major arrested at the Capitol.”organizationRemoval Coalition“Group lobbying for the impeachment of Donald Trump.”personAl Green“Democratic Representative from Texas.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States.”