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NewsNBC San Diego — 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 calling for the impeachment of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The officer, Jason Watson, was charged with crowding and obstructing while protesting in uniform, which is restricted under military regulations.

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Why It Matters

The incident highlights the legal and regulatory restrictions on political expression for active-duty military personnel, specifically regarding the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Capitol grounds protest rules.

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' by U.S. Capitol Police.
  • Capitol Police stated that demonstrating on the House Steps is prohibited 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 and he refused orders to stop the demonstration.
  • The Uniform Code of Military Justice prohibits officers from using contemptuous language toward the President and Vice President.
  • Military regulations prohibit service members from participating in political activities while in uniform.
  • Watson called for the impeachment of Donald Trump and JD Vance, citing actions in Venezuela and Iran as unconstitutional.
  • Watson claimed administration policies resulted in the deaths of 13 service members.
  • The event was organized by the Removal Coalition and attended by Rep. Al Green.

Who's Mentioned

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