As early exit polls suggested a potential second term for former President Donald Trump, many Americans began considering an exit of a different kind—moving abroad. Data from Google revealed a notable surge in searches related to emigration, particularly for Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, within hours of the polls closing on the U.S. East Coast.
According to Google’s data, searches for “move to Canada” spiked by 1,270% in just 24 hours following the closing of U.S. polls. Interest in relocating to New Zealand saw an even greater increase, with searches jumping nearly 2,000%, while those for Australia rose by 820%. By Wednesday evening, these emigration-related searches had reached unprecedented levels.
Although Google did not disclose specific search figures, New Zealand’s immigration website reported a significant rise in American visitors. On November 7 alone, approximately 25,000 U.S. users accessed the site, a stark contrast to the 1,500 visits on the same day in the previous year.
This heightened interest in leaving the U.S. has created a surge in inquiries for immigration lawyers. Evan Green, managing partner at Canada’s Green and Spiegel law firm, remarked on the influx of queries. “Every half hour, there is a new email inquiry,” he said, reflecting the urgency many Americans feel about exploring relocation options.
The wave of interest echoes the initial reactions to Trump’s 2016 election win, though this time, it follows a deeply polarised campaign. According to Edison Research exit polls, nearly three-quarters of U.S. voters believe American democracy is under threat. The potential impact of a Trump re-election has raised concerns over the growing divide between Democrats and Republicans, particularly on contentious issues like race, gender, education, and reproductive rights.
While Trump’s re-election appears to be the trigger, some observers believe the push for emigration stems from deeper societal issues. “Trump is obviously the impetus, but it’s also societal. The majority of Americans voted for him, and some people don’t necessarily feel comfortable living in that kind of society anymore. People are afraid they are going to lose freedoms,” Green explained.
In an online community dedicated to Americans considering emigration, called “r/AmerExit” on Reddit, hundreds of users have been exchanging tips on visa processes, job opportunities, and the best countries for relocation. Many shared that they fear for their country’s future and their personal safety following the election.
Heather Bell, an immigration consultant with Vancouver’s Bell Alliance law firm, noted that American clients’ emigration concerns were rising even before elections. Yet, she acknowledged that while interest is high, few Americans succeed in making the move due to Canada’s stringent immigration policies. “Immigrating to Canada is not easy, especially now with the government reducing the numbers of temporary and permanent migrants coming to Canada,” she said.
As the final election results unfold, it remains to be seen how many Americans will move beyond online searches and consider concrete steps to emigrate. However, the surge in interest underscores a sentiment of disillusionment among those questioning their place within an increasingly divided America.
Melissa Enoch
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