A US Air Force major was arrested on the steps of the US Capitol on Wednesday after delivering a speech calling for the impeachment and removal of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
The arrest of Jason Watson occurred after he spoke at a news conference organized by Removal Coalition, the grassroots, activist group said. During the news conference, Watson identified himself as an active-duty service member and wore a military uniform. Democratic Rep. Al Green of Texas also attended the event.
US Capitol Police, which confirmed the arrest, said members of the public may not demonstrate on the steps of the House unless they are accompanied by a member of Congress.
Watson was “escorted” to the steps by a member of Congress, who “left the area,” before police gave Watson “lawful orders to stop the illegal demonstration or he would be arrested,” the police said in a statement.
“The man refused our lawful orders and was then arrested for 22-1307 Crowding, Obstructing, and Incommoding,” US Capitol Police added, noting that there are other spots on the Capitol grounds where demonstrating is allowed.
