Several celebrities have chosen to leave the United States during Donald Trump's presidency, attributing their decisions to the political climate and personal convictions.This trend has been particularly pronounced among those who have voiced their discontent with Trump's policies and the broader political environment in the US.Before the 2016 presidential election, many celebrities, including singer Cher and actor Bryan Cranston, publicly stated they would leave the country if Trump won.While some remained, a notable number did follow through with their plans to relocate abroad.At least five celebrities have expressed concerns about Trump's second term and the government's handling of political issues, prompting their departures from the US.
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newsweek.comOne prominent figure is Rosie O'Donnell, who moved to Ireland shortly before Trump's inauguration in January 2017.O'Donnell cited the need for a safe environment where all citizens have equal rights as a significant factor in her decision.She stated, "When it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there, in America, that's when we will consider coming back," highlighting her deep concern for the political climate in the US.
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newsweek.comEllen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, also made headlines with their move to the United Kingdom in late 2024.The couple purchased a home in the Cotswolds and expressed their disillusionment with Trump's presidency.DeGeneres confirmed their decision was influenced by the political environment, stating, "Everything here is just better - the way animals are treated, people are polite." This sentiment reflects a broader trend among celebrities seeking refuge from what they perceive as a deteriorating political landscape in the US.
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people.comSimilarly, actress Minnie Driver returned to London after spending 27 years in Los Angeles.She expressed her reluctance to return to the US if Trump were to win a second term, emphasizing her discomfort with the political attitudes prevalent in certain states.Driver described the current political state as "troubling," indicating a desire to distance herself from the divisive environment.
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newsweek.comGame of Thrones star Sophie Turner also left the US, citing gun violence and the overturning of Roe v.Wade as catalysts for her decision.After the tragic Uvalde school shooting, she felt compelled to leave, stating, "Everything just kind of piled on," illustrating the emotional toll of the political climate on her family life.
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newsweek.comRichard Gere's move to Spain was motivated by a desire to be closer to his wife's family, but he also acknowledged the political climate in the US as a contributing factor.He expressed a need for a change, indicating that the political environment played a role in their decision to relocate.
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people.comThe Pew Research Center has documented a growing dissatisfaction among Americans with the political system, with many feeling disillusioned and exhausted by the current state of affairs.In a survey conducted in mid-2023, 63% of respondents expressed low confidence in the future of the US political system, reflecting a broader sentiment that may resonate with those who have chosen to leave.
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pewresearch.orgMoreover, the political landscape has become increasingly polarized, with many Americans feeling that elected officials are self-serving and ineffective.This pervasive negativity has led to a significant number of individuals, including celebrities, seeking refuge in other countries where they feel their values and safety are better aligned.
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pewresearch.orgWhile some celebrities have explicitly linked their moves to Trump's presidency, others have cited personal reasons or a desire for a different lifestyle.For instance, Amber Heard relocated to Spain following a highly publicized legal battle, seeking privacy and a fresh start for herself and her daughter.
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people.comAs the political climate in the US continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether more celebrities will choose to leave or if those who have already relocated will return.The ongoing dissatisfaction with the political environment suggests that the trend of celebrities moving abroad may persist as a reflection of broader societal sentiments.
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newsweek.compeople.comIn conclusion, the departures of these celebrities highlight a significant response to the political climate during Trump's presidency.Their choices resonate with many Americans who share similar frustrations, indicating a growing trend of seeking solace and safety outside the United States.
