Legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, issued a strong endorsement of former President Donald Trump on Wednesday.
Aldrin declared in a lengthy statement posted to X that he supports Trump “for the future of our country” and “to meet enormous challenges.”
“In this election, we have a choice and we all have one vote. For some, the choice may not be easy — but in times of uncertainty real leaders are most needed — to guide and inspire a people, to push through the noise, recognize what really matters, and accomplish missions critical to all citizens,” he wrote.
“Most Americans rightly consider it an honor to cast their vote for a leader they believe will best serve the nation,” Aldrin’s statement continued. “For me, for the future of our country, to meet enormous challenges, and for the proven policy accomplishments above, I believe we are best served by voting for Donald Trump. I wholeheartedly endorse him for President of the United States. Godspeed President Trump, and God Bless the United States of America.”
The astronaut, former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, and Korean War veteran cited his past work as part of the NASA Apollo program, writing: “I am proud of what we accomplished then and I have dedicated my life to the pursuit of an enduring human presence in space – it is a calling that runs through every fiber of my being.”
Aldin went on to describe his support for Trump’s actions during his first term, highlighting the creation of Space Force and the fact that “space exploration” was once again “a policy of high importance.”
“Under the first Trump Administration, I was impressed to see how human space exploration was elevated as a policy of high importance again. Under President Trump’s first term, America saw a revitalized interest in Space, and his Administration reignited national efforts to get back to the Moon, and push on to Mars,” he wrote.
The legendary astronaut then noted that he has “been enthused and excited by the great advancements in the private sector space economy, led by visionaries like Elon Musk.”
Aldrin concluded his statement by confirming that he is endorsing Trump because the “Presidency requires clarity in judgment, decisiveness, and calm under pressure that few have a natural ability to manage, or the life experience to successfully undertake” — while also requiring “sober analysis of frightening scenarios, and the instinct to lead with resolve.”
A half-Century ago, it was an honor to serve my country in the effort to put a human being on the Moon. I am proud of what we accomplished then and I have dedicated my life to the pursuit of an enduring human presence in space – it is a calling that runs…
— Dr. Buzz Aldrin (@TheRealBuzz) October 30, 2024
Trump responded to the news during a rally in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, thanking Aldrin for the endorsement and noting that he has “always admired” Aldrin.
