An Indian man enters America with high hopes, dreaming of success, wealth, and a better life. He works tirelessly, believing in the American dream—a vision of prosperity and opportunity that many across the world chase, including countless Indians. The US is often portrayed as the land of the free and the home of the brave, where hard work and merit are rewarded. This dream has become synonymous with success, and for many, it involves navigating complex paths, sometimes even resorting to illegal means like the 'dunki route' to enter the country. Yet, despite the allure of the American dream, a growing number of Americans are choosing to leave the US, disillusioned by its political divisions and economic challenges.
This shift in sentiment has been gaining momentum, particularly after the election of Donald Trump in 2016, which marked a stark division in the nation's political landscape. Many Americans, particularly those with liberal views, feel that the country under Trump is no longer a place they can call home. Trump's presidency, marked by hardline policies on immigration, his anti-abortion stance, and his controversial rhetoric, has left a significant portion of the population feeling unsettled. These individuals, disheartened by the political climate, are choosing to leave the US for countries they believe align more with their values, such as universal healthcare and a less polarized society.
The trend, often referred to as AmerExit, has seen a noticeable rise in the number of people contemplating or acting on their decision to leave the US. Reports from major media outlets like *The New York Times* and *USA Today* indicate that many people, especially expats and those with dual citizenship, are increasingly considering life abroad. The reasons for leaving are multifaceted—some are driven by political frustrations, while others seek a more stable or favorable economic environment.
For example, Justin Knepper, a California native who moved to Portugal, noted that at least 50% of his friends were considering leaving, with politics being a significant factor. Similarly, Deirdre Roney, who obtained citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda, said she left due to a combination of political anxiety and personal challenges, including job insecurity and a lack of career progression. This sense of fear and hopelessness is not isolated; many Americans, especially those who feel directly impacted by Trump’s policies, are making the decision to start over elsewhere.
AmerExit discussions have found a voice on social media platforms such as Reddit, with the r/AmerExit community seeing an influx of users after Trump's election victory. People share their plans, suggesting job opportunities in countries like Canada and Finland, or discussing destinations known for better protections for marginalized communities, including transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals. Posts often express a deep sense of disillusionment with the current state of the US and the desire to find a more tolerant and stable environment.
The rise of this exodus has also been reflected in Google search trends, with many Americans searching for information on how to move to countries like Canada, Germany, or New Zealand. The increasing interest in relocation is often tied to fears over issues like abortion rights, gun violence, and the erosion of civil liberties under the Trump administration. For some, these concerns have become so pressing that the thought of continuing to live in the US under another Trump term is no longer an option.
Cindy Sheahan, for instance, moved to Sicily citing the growing polarization in the US as her main reason for leaving. She expressed that the climate in the US had become too divisive and toxic for her to remain. Similarly, other individuals like Freya Wilson, a transgender woman, and Sara Dawn O'Dell, a woman concerned about potential abortion bans, have also opted to leave for countries with more inclusive policies and greater political stability.
David Lesperance, a Canadian immigration advisor, noted that his clients are increasingly seeking dual citizenship and are making plans to leave the US in response to rising political polarization and concerns over social issues. What distinguishes this wave of AmerExit is that people are not just talking about leaving—they are acting on it. The sense of danger and uncertainty, whether from political, social, or economic factors, has prompted many Americans to follow through on their plans to relocate.
As the US faces its internal struggles, a curious paradox emerges. While many Americans are choosing to leave the country in search of better opportunities and a more peaceful political climate abroad, Indians continue to risk everything for a chance to live the American dream. The contrast highlights the divergent paths people take toward their dreams—some escaping their country's troubles, others seeking them. Both groups, however, share a common desire for a better future, whether it lies in the US or outside its borders.
