Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon and a respected figure in the space community, endorsed former President Donald Trump’s re-election on Thursday.
He called the Republican nominee the best candidate to lead the U.S. through “enormous challenges” and guide the nation’s future.
“In this election, we have a choice, and we all have one vote,” Aldrin shared in a post on X.
“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.”
Aldrin, a decorated Korean War veteran and former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, referenced his longstanding commitment to space exploration and national service as core reasons for his support of Trump.
“Most Americans rightly consider it an honor to cast their vote for a leader they believe will best serve the nation. 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,” he added.
“I wholeheartedly endorse him for President of the United States. Godspeed President Trump, and God Bless the United States of America.”
Aldrin also praised Trump’s focus on space exploration during his first term, recalling a period of “revitalized interest in space” and “significant progress” in human exploration efforts.
He noted that Trump’s administration had “reignited national efforts to get back to the Moon and push on to Mars,” an area of personal significance for Aldrin, who has dedicated his life to advancing human presence in space.
“I am proud of what we accomplished [in the Apollo program], 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,” Aldrin wrote.
Aldrin also expressed excitement for advancements made by private sector space innovators like Elon Musk, whom he credited with driving bold developments in space technology alongside government efforts.
Trump’s first term saw the creation of the U.S. Space Force, the newest branch of the U.S. military focused on space security, which Aldrin cited as an important move in maintaining national security in an increasingly contested domain.
His endorsement of Trump, however, extended beyond space policy. Aldrin emphasized the need for “clarity in judgment, decisiveness, and calm under pressure” in the Oval Office, qualities he sees in Trump’s leadership.
“The Presidency requires sober analysis of frightening scenarios and the instinct to lead with resolve,” Aldrin wrote, underscoring the demanding nature of the role.
He argued that Trump’s experience equips him to tackle the complex and evolving challenges facing the nation.
Aldrin’s endorsement brings a high-profile voice from the space community into the 2024 election conversation, with the astronaut joining other public figures who have recently aligned themselves with candidates based on specific policy interests, particularly in areas of national defense, technology, and exploration.