US Air Force Major Jason Watson has been formally charged under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) after repeatedly criticizing President Donald Trump and publicly calling for his impeachment.
Watson faces 10 charges: three counts under Article 88 for allegedly making “contemptuous” remarks about Trump, five under Article 92 for allegedly disobeying military orders, and two under Article 133 for conduct allegedly unbecoming an officer.
The charges stem from his participation in a political protest while wearing his uniform at the US Capitol on July 1, an interview with a political newsletter, and a CNN interview in August in which he strongly criticized Trump.
Watson was arrested at the Capitol in July and arrested again in August. His lawyer said he has been placed in pre-trial confinement, similar to being denied bail in a civilian court.
Military regulations generally prohibit service members from taking part in overtly partisan political activities while in uniform and prohibit contemptuous remarks against senior civilian officials. However, military courts rarely prosecute cases under Article 88.
According to CNN's review, only two Article 88 convictions have been identified since the modern UCMJ was introduced in 1951. One involved an Army lieutenant who protested the Vietnam War in 1965. Another involved former Marine Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller, who pleaded guilty in 2021 after publicly criticizing the Biden administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.
Watson's lawyer said his client believes he acted in defense of the US Constitution and the oath he took as an officer. He also said Watson stands by his criticism of Trump.
Military law experts note that the definition of “contemptuous” remarks can be difficult to apply. Watson's case could therefore involve a preliminary Article 32 hearing to determine whether his statements were unlawful insults or legitimate criticism.
It remains unclear whether Watson's case will proceed to a court-martial. The Air Force has stressed that he is presumed innocent.
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