Americans Seek New Beginnings in Europe Amidst Political Concerns

Americans Seek New Beginnings in Europe Amidst Political Concerns

Deborah Harkness, a former Yank turned Pom, recently went out on a limb. Her plan to move south to Spain changed her life in even deeper ways. Her decision was partly influenced by the prospect of another Donald Trump re-election. She thought it would open doors to all new opportunities in her life. In January, as thousands of Trump supporters gathered in Washington D.C. for his inauguration, Harkness acted on her long-standing dream of moving abroad.

Harkness is not alone in her sentiments. Increasingly, Americans are making the decision to go. Most of them point to a crisis of conscience over Trump’s policies and the current political climate as their justification for leaving. Similar to Harkness, Benjamin and Chrys Gorman experienced the same urgent tug to move abroad. They took the plunge—literally—moving all the way to Barcelona and selling their house, cars, and everything they owned in only 76 days. Their experiences mirror a growing national trend as Americans of all backgrounds and creeds flee to escape what they believe to be an increasingly hostile environment.

Harkness points to her decision as an act of defiance against the presidency of Trump. Beyond that, she dreams big and tackles the systemic issues that are challenging our nation. She views the ascendance of someone like Trump to power as indicative of an undercurrent of rot in our society. This revelation propels her to feel that relocating overseas is necessary for her health.

Others share Harkness’s perspective. After leaving North Carolina for Cork, Ireland, playwright and author Monica Byrne shared those same fears over the future of American democracy. She warned as well of the new normal of chaos and disinformation, calling it all a road to authoritarianism.

“When Trump was re-elected, the feeling was: ‘We gotta go,’” – Lisa

Lisa, yet another American getting her family ready for a transatlantic relocation, described the stressful speed with which they had to operate. Under questioning, she explained her worry over the unpredictability of Trump’s presidency and its possible long-term consequences.

“We’re months into this presidency, and a lot has already happened. I can’t imagine what’s going to happen in another three and a half years.” – Lisa

The urgency that these folks are feeling reflects the desire that most Americans have been looking for, away from life under the rule of Trumpismus. Nomad-related reports indicate that France experienced a notable jump in long-stay visa applications from Americans during the first quarter of the year. That increase reflects a rising interest among those wanting to put down new ones in a foreign land.

The interest in applying for British citizenship has surged to the highest levels since 2004. Hundreds of thousands are ready to flee from their home countries’ political crises. This recent influx of talent has caused universities and governments throughout Europe to start initiatives designed specifically to bring this American talent to their countries. Aix-Marseille University developed the “scientific asylum” program. This program is designed to draw people who are looking for a sense of safety and stability in their work life.

Already since Trump’s re-election, as many as three relocation firms have claimed a sharp increase in incoming calls. Americans are looking beyond the borders of the United States as never before. As countless people across the country can attest, the Gormans’ experience is a classic example of this phenomenon. They determined their approach by considering their own passions and community needs.

“So many things have just been shockingly better,” – Gorman

As happy as they are to move away, they recognize that the problems that are causing them to leave are still unaddressed. Benjamin Gorman articulated this sentiment clearly.

“I don’t foresee this movement ending with the end of the [Trump administration] … I think that the rot is much deeper.” – Gorman

As Americans continue to grapple with the current political landscape, many are left questioning the roots of support for Trump’s brand of politics. Gorman’s description of this concern was most palpable when he commented on the need to engage with the base that fuels Trump’s philosophies.

“If he wouldn’t have a huge base of support, Trump is just, you know, your crazy uncle yelling things on a porch. That base of support needs to be addressed. Why was there support for this kind of fascism?” – Gorman

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