WASHINGTON — The U.S. Air Force announced Thursday that it is launching an investigation into an active-duty officer who stood on the steps of the Capitol in uniform and publicly demanded the impeachment of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
The officer, identified as Major Jason Watson, made his remarks Wednesday during a protest event. According to video footage of the demonstration posted online, Watson criticized both Trump and Vance over several issues, including what he described as going to war with Iran without authorization from Congress.
Video from the event also shows U.S. Capitol Police detaining Watson at one point. He was holding a sign at the protest calling for the impeachment, conviction, and removal of both Trump and Vance.
The office of Air Force Secretary Troy Meink released a statement addressing the situation without specifically naming Watson. The statement acknowledged reports of an Air Force officer protesting at the Capitol and confirmed that an investigation “will proceed unimpeded.”
“The Department takes allegations of misconduct seriously, including any that might undermine the nonpartisan nature of our military,” the office stated in a post on X.
Federal law places significant limits on what active-duty military personnel can do when it comes to political activities, especially while wearing their uniform. Additionally, Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice specifically forbids officers from using “contemptuous words against the President, the Vice President, Congress” or other U.S. officials.
Watson appeared to acknowledge the potential consequences of his actions during his remarks at the protest. “What matters far more than who I am is what I have to say and the price I’m willing to pay to say it,” he said.
Attempts to reach Watson for comment were unsuccessful.
