A coalition of more than one hundred former NASA astronauts announced the formation of a new advocacy organization on Tuesday, positioning themselves as defenders of foundational American governance principles. The group, called Astronauts for America, describes its mission as nonpartisan and focused on reinforcing constitutional norms.
In an open letter, the founding members emphasized that their alliance is "patriotic, not partisan," comprising individuals who identify as Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. "We are from many different backgrounds who share a love of this country," the statement read. "We believe deeply in the principles that have propelled our nation for 250 years, such as the rule of law, constructive checks and balances, equal opportunity, and the peaceful transfer of power."
The organization argues that a functional democracy underpins national prosperity and security. "A strong democracy makes all else possible: economic growth, national security, and our rights and freedoms," their letter stated.
Prominent Figures and Bipartisan Backing
Among the group's founders is retired NASA astronaut and former U.S. Navy Captain Scott Kelly. His brother, Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.)—also a former astronaut—publicly endorsed the effort. "I know all of these people. Been in space with some. Worked with others for decades. They're really smart, thoughtful, and stand firm on the foundational principles of this country," Senator Kelly wrote on the social platform X.
The launch was accompanied by a video statement from Charles Bolden, the first Black administrator of NASA, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama. Bolden stated the group aims to "help people get back to understanding civics, understanding the principles of the founding of this country." He added, "We're a nation of diverse ideas, and that's what makes us so great."
Strategic Mission and Political Engagement
The organization outlined a clear political strategy in its founding documents. It plans to partner with elected officials from both major parties who "govern in accordance with the Constitution," while simultaneously challenging those it believes fall short of that standard. This approach mirrors the kind of cross-aisle engagement seen in efforts like the bipartisan commission working to develop a new framework for rural policy.
Their operational plan includes direct meetings with members of Congress, organizing public events, and promoting policies they describe as "grounded in data, science, and informed analysis." This science-forward stance places them in a broader conversation about evidence-based governance, a topic that has surfaced in other contexts, such as the House Oversight Committee's investigation into the deaths and disappearances of American scientists.
The group's emergence reflects a growing trend of veteran-led civic initiatives, though it distinguishes itself through its specific focus on constitutionalism rather than single-issue advocacy. Other groups, including voting rights organizations challenging federal data collection efforts, operate in the same ecosystem of civic defense but with different tactical focuses.
By leveraging their unique national stature and bipartisan composition, the astronauts aim to elevate civic discourse. Their entry into the advocacy space signals a notable attempt to apply the discipline and cooperative ethos of space exploration to the fractious arena of American political life, advocating for a return to what they frame as first principles of governance.
