Political Quotes

“From the pioneering Mercury missions, to the Apollo voyages to the moon, to the construction of the revolutionary International Space Station, America's astronauts have boldly gone where no man has gone before. Our scientific understanding, quality of life, and ability to imagine a better future have been greatly increased by the brave men and women who volunteer and are selected for these difficult missions. In my hometown of Houston, Space City, Texas, NASA's astronauts and employees are part of the family. They are our neighbors and friends, they help us educate and motivate our schoolchildren, they attend our churches with us, and they serve as role models in our community. Since 1997, I have had the privilege of having NASA astronauts visit middle schools in my congressional district. These visits are meant to encourage students to take math and science classes and to consider our space program as a career opportunity. I believe that all students need to have access to role models like Dr. Ochoa, Dr. Chang-Diaz, and Dr. Olivas. Individuals who proudly brave the dangerous conditions of spaceflight in pursuit of technology and scientific research to improve life on earth deserve our highest respect.”