The recent Artemis II mission, circling the Moon, served as a powerful reminder of humanity’s shared connection to the cosmos. Witnessing humans venture into space evokes a sense of unity and hope that transcends borders and beliefs.
Having collectively flown millions of miles beyond Earth, we’ve always understood the weight of representing our nation and the importance of collaboration. Each mission demanded unwavering commitment to a common goal, and a responsibility to voice concerns when necessary.
We are former NASA astronauts, bound by an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution. Our love for this country and its enduring values, forged over nearly 250 years, compels us to a new mission: safeguarding the Constitution and the rule of law.
This isn’t a partisan endeavor. With the support of over 100 fellow former astronauts, we’ve formed a group driven by duty, not ideology. Our members span the political spectrum – Republicans, Democrats, and Independents – united by a shared commitment to American principles.
One of us served over three decades in the Air Force and at NASA as a pilot and astronaut, while the other spent 95 days aboard the International Space Station and later contributed to SpaceX as a senior advisor. We both chose NASA because it embodies the pinnacle of American ingenuity and achievement.
Spaceflight isn’t about politics; it’s about unwavering dedication to the mission. Remarkably, despite years of working side-by-side, we only recently discovered our differing political registrations – one Republican, one Democrat.
From the vantage point of space, the things that unite us become strikingly clear, dwarfing our differences. However, in recent decades, increasing partisan polarization has weakened our democracy and eroded fundamental constitutional norms.
Respect for the rule of law and limitations on government power are being challenged. Too often, evidence and expertise are disregarded in favor of political maneuvering, creating a dangerous precedent.
The failure of democratic systems has a cascading effect, diminishing civil rights, hindering scientific progress, and jeopardizing national security. Strengthening our democracy demands continuous effort from all citizens.
Our organization, Astronauts for America, aims to restore respect for the Constitution by fostering collaboration and prioritizing truth and integrity in leadership. We will support leaders who demonstrate fealty to the Constitution and base decisions on data and evidence.
We will champion those who bridge divides to achieve progress and hold policymakers accountable when they disregard the rule of law. It’s time to stand against divisiveness, polarization, and any threat to our core American values.
We must defend the Constitution and the democratic principles that make the United States exceptional, ensuring every child feels safe expressing their opinions and pursuing their dreams, whether those dreams involve space exploration or any other aspiration.
Those who serve in the military or venture into space inevitably contemplate how they will respond when tested. Will they rise to the challenge, or succumb to fear? We all hope to be at our best, supported by our colleagues.
We are facing a critical moment, but we’ve witnessed firsthand – both on Earth and from space – the extraordinary potential of Americans uniting for the common good.
