Over one hundred former NASA astronauts have launched a nonpartisan organization that aims to "revitalize American democracy" by defending constitutional values and supporting leaders who respect science and data-based decisions. The initiative, called "Astronauts For America," was announced in an open letter to US citizens ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.

"For decades, we have witnessed a steady erosion of our founding values and principles, weakening our democratic systems. The result," reads the letter published on astronautsforamerica.org, "has been political polarization and the subversion of fundamental constitutional and institutional norms, including bipartisan cooperation, limits on executive power, and judicial independence. In spaceflight, ignoring evidence costs scientific progress, mission success, and even human lives. In democracy, it costs trust, stability, international respect, and the health and well-being of citizens."

The former astronauts emphasize that their initiative is "patriotic" and "nonpartisan." "We are Republicans, Democrats, and Independents of diverse backgrounds, united by our love for this country. We deeply believe in the principles that have guided our nation for 250 years, such as the rule of law, a constructive system of checks and balances, equal opportunity, and the peaceful transfer of power." For this reason, Astronauts For America "will work with voters and support leaders, regardless of party, who govern in accordance with the Constitution and who overcome differences to achieve concrete results for the good of the nation. We will also oppose officials who ignore the rule of law or distort and disregard the facts."

(Unioneonline)

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