Air Force Major Detained After Calling for Trump Impeachment

The Department of the Air Force ordered Jason Watson into pretrial confinement on August 18, 2026, following allegations of continued misconduct. Watson is currently held at a county facility in Maryland on a military hold after he informed his chain of command that he would no longer wear his uniform and subsequently refused an order to put it on.

This detention follows a July 1 arrest on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. During a press conference hosted by the anti-Trump Removal Coalition, Watson appeared in uniform and called for the impeachment and removal of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. He cited administration policies regarding immigration and military actions in Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba, characterizing the war in Iran as an "act of American aggression."

In an interview with CNN, Watson stated that President Trump is "flagrantly violating the Constitution" and is "engaged in rampant corruption." He acknowledged that speaking out in uniform violates military laws but claimed his actions were motivated by his oath to the Constitution. His attorney, Chris Mutimer, noted that Watson expected the arrest and may face charges under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for contempt towards an officer or failure to obey an order. The Air Force stated that Watson's personal statements do not reflect the views or policies of the department.