A U.S. Air Force major has been criminally charged under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) for publicly criticizing President Donald Trump while in uniform and in media interviews, according to Pentagon officials and court documents.
The charges stem from two incidents: a July 1 protest at the U.S. Capitol where Major Jason Watson wore his uniform while calling for Trump’s impeachment, and a CNN interview last week in which he described Trump as violating the Constitution and engaging in corruption. Watson’s attorney confirmed he is being held in pretrial confinement pending legal proceedings.
Charges and Allegations
Watson faces 10 allegations under the UCMJ, including three violations of Article 88 for allegedly making contemptuous remarks against the president, five violations of Article 92 for disobeying orders, and two violations of Article 133 for conduct unbecoming an officer. The charges cite Watson’s statements at the Capitol protest, his CNN interview, and a prior interview with the Defenders of Our Republic Substack newsletter.
In the CNN interview, Watson stated that Trump was “a failure as president” who was “flagrantly violating the Constitution, breaking the law, engaged in rampant corruption and is killing Americans.” His attorney told reporters that Watson “stands by the fact that he did this so others wouldn’t have to.”
Military Response and Policy Context
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink issued a statement following Watson’s July arrest, emphasizing that all service members must “comply with all laws and policies” regarding uniform wear, political participation, and personal conduct. The Pentagon has not publicly detailed the specific orders Watson allegedly violated.
Watson’s case marks the first time a U.S. Air Force major has been charged under Article 88 for contemptuous remarks against a sitting president, according to military legal experts cited by CBS News. Legal analysts note that UCMJ cases of this nature are rarely prosecuted in open court, making this a highly unusual proceeding.
Timeline of Events
- July 1: Watson detained at the U.S. Capitol while wearing his uniform and holding a sign reading “Impeach. Convict. Remove.”
- August 17: Watson gives a CNN interview repeating his criticisms of Trump, leading to his second detention.
- August 25: Pentagon announces criminal charges against Watson, including pretrial confinement.
Watson’s legal team has not yet filed a formal response to the charges. The case is now proceeding through the military justice system, with no announced trial date.