Major Jason Watson, an active-duty officer, criticized both Trump and Vance on Wednesday for actions such as engaging in war with Iran without congressional approval, according to an online video of the event.
The footage shows Capitol Police officers detaining Major Watson, who was holding a sign advocating for the impeachment, conviction, and removal of Trump and Vance.
While not naming Major Watson directly, the office of Air Force Secretary Troy Meink acknowledged reports of an Air Force officer protesting at the Capitol and stated that an investigation “will proceed unimpeded.”
In a post on X, the department affirmed, “The Department takes allegations of misconduct seriously, including any that might undermine the nonpartisan nature of our military.”
U.S. military regulations impose strict limitations on service members’ political activities, especially when in uniform.
Furthermore, Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice forbids officers from employing “contemptuous words against the President, the Vice President, Congress, and other U.S. representatives.
Major Watson appeared to acknowledge the potential repercussions of his actions, stating: “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.”
