Air Force Maj. Jason Watson was arrested on the steps of the Capitol Wednesday after calling for the impeachments of President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. As the active-duty service member was led away, in full uniform, a crowd of bystanders shouted at police “Shame!” “Free speech!” and “Protect the First Amendment!”

They then broke into a chant of “Who do you serve? Who do you protect?”

However, Watson’s arrest had nothing to do with his free speech rights. As a matter of law, no one may stand on the steps of the Capitol and use it as their own personal soapbox unless accompanied by a member of Congress. Watson had been protesting on the steps at the side of Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), but remained standing there after Green left, holding a sign that said, “Impeach, Convict, Remove.”

Police then gave the military officer the option to leave as well, or remain and face arrest. Watson chose to remain and was subsequently arrested and charged with crowding, obstructing and incommoding.

The Uniform Code of Military Justice stipulates that Watson could be court-martialed or face disciplinary measures for his violation of the law.