US service member arrested at Capitol after calling for Trump’s impeachment

Key Points:

• US Air Force Major Jason Watson was arrested on the US Capitol steps after delivering a speech calling for the impeachment and removal of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance during a Removal Coalition news conference.
• Watson, an active-duty service member, wore his military uniform and was arrested for refusing lawful orders to stop an unauthorized demonstration, violating Capitol Police regulations that prohibit public protests on House steps without a member of Congress present.
• The arrest occurred after a member of Congress initially escorted Watson to the steps but then left, leading to police intervention; Watson is expected to be released without charges as per a DC superior court official.
• Watson criticized Trump’s policies on Venezuela, Iran, and immigration enforcement during his speech, asserting they violated constitutional provisions and warranted impeachment.
• Public dissent by active-duty military personnel is rare and restricted under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which prohibits contemptuous speech against top officials and wearing uniforms at political rallies; Removal Coalition founder Jessica Denson confirmed Watson understood the risks involved.