Was there a mass exodus following the last month’s election? The digital ether brimmed with buzz, with a sharp spike in Google searches on topics pertaining to moving out of the country and settling overseas, a surge of over 1,500%, to be precise. A study conducted before the declaration of electoral results revealed a rather startling fact: about 21% of Americans—approximately one in five—publicly entertained the idea of bidding farewell to the United States had their preferred candidate not prevailed in the election.
In the wake of the election, conspicuous figures from the celebrity world were swift to make their retreat with resounding haste. As images began to circulate showing comedian Ellen DeGeneres and her spouse, actress Portia de Rossi, comfortably situated in England, many couldn’t help but observe with a certain sense of amusement: those with least to bear the brunt were indeed the first to take off.
A number of notable personalities additionally made their intent to decamp public. Among them were Barbra Streisand, Cher, Sharon Stone, the star of ‘Breaking Bad’ Bryan Cranston, comedian Amy Schumer, actress America Ferrera, and Vivian Wilson, the daughter of Elon Musk. Keeping in line with their previously stated strong anti-Trump sentiments throughout the campaign, these stars were hit with a wave of disappointment following the electoral verdict.
Their dismay, their frustration, their emotional sting—all unambiguous and palpable. For many, their emotions verged on the threshold of sorrow. Yet, while their disappointment cannot be dismissed, one could only bid them a sympathetic farewell on their way to the airport, ready to jet off to their chosen destination, and we say… all the best to you.
After all, it’s the affluent ones, like them, who possess the means to promptly duck out who would be the least influenced by any decisions made by the Trump administration. At the same time, it’s also these privileged elite who have the capacity and financial freedom to contribute to the support of those who might feel a tangible impact.
Thus, we bid them a hearty bon voyage, adieu, adios, cheerio, and ensure they don’t let the door strike them on their way out as it’s closing. Their exit, as much as it may be driven by personal agenda, shines a light on the resilience of the rest among us who have made the choice to stick it out.
We remain here, not solely due to lacking resources for procuring a posh apartment in either London or Vancouver, but due to our unwavering belief in the unparalleled greatness of America. This nation never needed revitalization—its inherent might only needs to be showcased, not revived. We choose to stay, proud and resolute, ready to echo this testament.
A certain anecdote of an American intending to relocate abroad due to election aftermath does stand out amid the cacophony. Robert Horton, a 79-year old gentleman hailing from Virginia Beach, successfully applied for a long-stay visa in France, expressing his plans to move there prior to the elections.
With his strong support for Trump, Horton was of the conviction that Kamala Harris would eventually win. Consequently, he forfeited his Florida home and decided to abandon his familiar surroundings for life in ‘a socialist country’ as he labelled France, making Paris his next chosen abode.
It’s intriguing to consider how Parisians might perceive such an individual. The term ‘l’idiot’ might come uncomfortably close. Irrespective of political affiliations, the narrative outlined here simply serves to illustrate the diverse reactions across the United States in the election aftermath.
All the while, an ardent faith in the enduring greatness of America acts as a binding force for the larger majority. The essence of what makes America truly great indeed, does not need to be restored or remodeled. It is steadfast, persistent and it continues to prevail through the challenging tides of political transitions.
The nation thrives not because of the dissenting wealthy who have the privilege to escape at will whenever they encounter discomfort, but due to the ironclad resilience of those who stand their ground, firm in their belief in the core American ideals. They remain anchored amidst the tumult, stemming from the understanding that this is their home, their country. They stay because they believe in the enduring possibility of progress, triumph, and greatness.
While some celebrate the disheartening departure of celebrities, it’s the unwavering spirit of the true and persisting believers in America’s talent to thrive and prosper that deserves our deepest admiration. For they are the ones who, in the face of disappointment, don’t pack up and leave but stay and work towards positive transformation.
Although the demographics and personal opinions vary vastly, the takeaway here is that vast segments of the American population remain devoted to this land, facing everything with a strength of spirit. It is this persistence in face of change that is, ultimately, the most encouraging message arising from the remnants of this political spectacle.