Air Force Major Recommended for Court-Martial After Capitol Protest

An investigating officer has recommended that Jason Watson, a Major in the United States Air Force, face a general court-martial following his arrest in July during a protest on the steps of the Capitol. Major Watson appeared in uniform during the demonstration, where he called for the impeachment of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Major Joshua Wendell, the investigating officer, recommended proceeding with charges including conduct unbecoming of an officer, uniform violations, and the use of contemptuous words against the president and senior officials under Article 88 of the military justice code. Major Wendell recommended dismissing separate charges related to authorized leave and prohibited partisan political activity.

Major Watson stated that he acted not out of partisanship but to uphold his oath to defend the Constitution. A military convening authority within the United States Air Force will make the final determination on whether to refer the charges to trial.