A group of retired NASA astronauts has launched a nonpartisan campaign aimed at encouraging voter participation and reaffirming commitment to the United States Constitution ahead of the November midterm elections. The initiative, called Astronauts for America, was announced on July 20 in Los Angeles, coinciding with the 57th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Drawing on their unique perspective from space, where national divisions and political boundaries are not visible, the astronauts emphasize the importance of unity and democratic values. Cady Coleman, who spent 180 days in space, including a lengthy mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) from 2010 to 2011, described the country as a single, unified entity, dismissing the political fragmentation seen on Earth. She and her colleagues believe that faith in the nation's constitutional democracy has waned and that restoring this trust is essential.
The campaign, titled Vote for Freedom, will involve visits to approximately 60 college and university campuses, particularly in swing states, targeting young and first-time voters. The astronauts plan to urge these voters to engage in the democratic process, stressing that even small individual actions can have significant impacts over time. Coleman likened voting to making course corrections in space travel, underscoring the long-term effects of present decisions.
Former NASA administrator Charles Bolden, who served under President Barack Obama, expressed concerns over recent trends he sees as detrimental to the constitutional order, including increased reliance on executive orders. While acknowledging the political challenges Obama faced, Bolden considers such executive actions inconsistent with the Constitution and warns that recent assaults on democratic norms, particularly during the Trump administration, place the nation at risk. He urged immediate action to prevent further deterioration.
Astronaut Linda Godwin, a member of the campaign’s steering committee, highlighted the group’s intention to "grade" congressional candidates based on their adherence to constitutional principles. Drawing on their experience in highly coordinated missions that required trust, accountability, and collaboration, the astronauts see their involvement as a way to contribute to preserving democratic governance. “We think our country is the mission,” Godwin said.
Other astronauts participating in the campaign include Ron Garan and Ellen Ochoa, the latter of whom was the first Latina and the first person to play the flute in space. Ochoa emphasized the importance of voting as both a right and a responsibility in a functioning democracy. The group’s message addresses the role of active participation in sustaining democratic institutions, especially among young voters who may be exercising their right to vote for the first time.
At their launch event, the astronauts adopted a statement encapsulating their mission: “Going to the polls is one small step for you, and one giant leap for our country.” The campaign reflects their collective commitment to safeguarding the nation’s democratic framework by inspiring informed and engaged voter participation.