In this high-flying, mission-focused episode, Col. Terry Virts, former NASA astronaut, U.S. Air Force colonel, and International Space Station commander, joins Greg Hanna and Neil Haley to talk about his bold new mission—running for the U.S. Senate in Texas.
From flying F-16 combat missions to commanding astronauts in orbit, Terry now sets his sights on restoring common-sense leadership in Washington. He shares his political vision, personal values, and why he's the right candidate to unify Texas across party lines.
Terry breaks down key campaign issues—from healthcare reform and affordable living to public education and Texas innovation. You'll also hear his views on bipartisanship, centrist values, and the growing need for a better way forward in American politics.
Why Run Now?
Terry shares what inspired him to run: a love for his country, frustration with gridlock, and a mission-first mindset. He’s not a career politician—he’s a leader who gets things done.
From Fighter Jets to Campaign Trails
The story of how witnessing authoritarianism abroad as a young student in Finland shaped his early support for Reagan—and how that evolved into his current run as a Texas Democrat.
The Texas Voter Reality
“Texas isn’t as Republican as people think—it’s just non-voting.” Terry discusses the massive untapped voter base and how he’s reaching across ideological divides to activate it.
Healthcare as an Economic Issue
Terry outlines a pragmatic, cost-focused approach to reform:
Expand supply of doctors and medical residencies
Offer free preventive care (mammograms, vaccines, screenings)
Target cost inefficiencies without bankrupting the nation
Education, Vouchers, and Federal Support
As a product of public schools, Terry defends education funding, opposes state voucher systems, and supports federal aid for underfunded districts and special needs programs.
Immigration, Tech & Innovation
As a former astronaut and global traveler, Terry promotes smart immigration policy to attract STEM talent and strengthen Texas’ role in energy, aerospace, and AI.
Bipartisanship by Example
Terry shares stories of commanding Russian cosmonauts aboard the ISS—while Russia was invading Ukraine. His core principle: “Work with people—even your enemies—for a greater goal.”
Running as a Centrist Democrat
Terry openly critiques traditional party politics and DC consultants:
He speaks plainly about Donald Trump’s influence on democracy
He refuses to run a poll-driven campaign of vague messaging
He embraces podcasting, town halls, and even appearing on Newsmax and Fox News to reach voters directly
“Time is batting a thousand. Do what you need to do—because you never know how long you’ve got.”
— Col. Terry Virts
“I’m not running as a partisan—I’m running to represent all Texans: red, blue, and everything in between.”
— Col. Terry Virts
“As an astronaut, I had to work with Russians while they were invading Ukraine. If I can do that in orbit, I can work across the aisle in Washington.”
— Col. Terry Virts
“If we can catch health issues early with free preventative care, we save lives—and money. That’s smart policy.”
— Col. Terry Virts
“I’m the only Democrat in this race who talks about Trump—because I’m not afraid of the truth.”
— Col. Terry Virts
How to Astronaut – An insider's guide to life in space
View from Above – A National Geographic photography journey from orbit
The Astronaut’s Guide (For Kids) – A fun, educational STEM read
(Plus a future baby board book—“Some Dogs”—on hold during the campaign)
📍 Website: www.terryvirts.com
📍 Donate or Volunteer: Get involved in the grassroots movement
📍 Social Media: @AstroTerry on X, Instagram, Facebook, and more
📍 Attend a Town Hall: Check the campaign site for upcoming events
“Leave everything better than you found it—your relationships, your work, and the world around you.”
🗳️ Key Topics Covered:💬 Notable Quotes:📚 Terry’s Books:📌 How to Support:🧭 Final Life Lesson from Terry: