Here’s what happened.
Air Force Major Arrested After Capitol Protest Calling for Trump’s Impeachment
An active-duty U.S. Air Force major was arrested outside the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday after delivering a speech calling for the impeachment of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
Capitol Police said peaceful protests are allowed on Capitol grounds, but anyone addressing a crowd from the Capitol steps must be accompanied by a member of Congress. Air Force Maj. Jason Watson initially met that requirement by appearing alongside Rep. Al Green, the Texas Democrat who has been a frequent advocate for impeaching President Trump.
After Green left the area, officers instructed Watson to step away from the Capitol steps or face arrest. When he did not comply, Capitol Police arrested him on charges of crowding, obstructing, and incommoding.
Air Force Officer Criticizes Trump Administration
Before being taken into custody, Watson accused the Trump administration of exceeding its constitutional authority by carrying out military actions without congressional approval. During his remarks, he argued that actions involving countries including Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran violated Congress’ constitutional war powers and called for both Trump and Vance to be impeached and removed from office.
Watson also criticized several policies pursued during the Trump administration, including the work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), immigration enforcement carried out by the Department of Homeland Security, and several law enforcement incidents involving civilians.
The Air Force major claimed those actions violated constitutional protections, including rights guaranteed under the First and Second Amendments. He referenced multiple incidents involving immigration enforcement before concluding his remarks by reciting the U.S. Air Force officer’s oath.
Rep. Al Green Praises Demonstration
Following the arrest, Green released a video praising Watson’s actions.
The Texas congressman said Watson demonstrated courage by publicly advocating for impeachment despite knowing he could face arrest. Green argued that acts of peaceful protest can encourage Americans to defend the principles of liberty and justice.
Green has been one of Trump’s most outspoken critics in Congress and has previously introduced articles of impeachment against the president. Earlier this year, he was removed from the House chamber during one of Trump’s addresses to Congress after interrupting the proceedings.
Military Review Could Follow Arrest
Because Watson serves on active duty, the incident could have consequences beyond the criminal charges filed by Capitol Police.
Federal law and military regulations place limits on partisan political activity by active-duty service members. Military officials could review Watson’s actions under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which governs conduct within the armed forces. Depending on the outcome of that review, possible consequences could range from administrative discipline to court-martial proceedings.
At this time, Air Force officials have not publicly announced whether any separate military investigation has been opened.
The arrest has drawn attention nationwide and renewed debate over the balance between free speech rights and the political restrictions placed on active-duty military personnel. While supporters describe Watson’s demonstration as an exercise of free expression, critics argue military officers are expected to remain politically neutral while serving.
As the legal process continues, the case is expected to receive additional scrutiny from lawmakers, military leaders, and constitutional scholars.