Celebrities Who Said They Would Leave the U.S. if Trump Were Elected
Over the years, public figures have aired their opinions about political matters, especially during presidential elections. For starters, Donald Trump’s run and then presidency received backlash, mainly from the communities of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. Some celebrities went as far as to say that they would leave the United States if Trump was elected. Here’s a look at some of the most notable names who said that they would do so and if they followed through:
1. Barbra Streisand
The iconic singer and actress was among the first to voice her discontent when Trump launched his presidential bid back in 2016, claiming that she would emigrate to Canada if he won. Political outspokenness has been part of Streisand’s career, but she did not leave the U.S.
2. Miley Cyrus
Known for making headline-pulling statements, Miley Cyrus took to social media back in 2016 to declare that if Trump became president, she would leave the country. Of course, when he did, the pop star remained stateside, continuing her career and activism.
3. Whoopi Goldberg
The “View” co-host and Oscar-winning actress had threatened to leave the United States if Trump won, attacking his rhetoric and policy positions. But Goldberg has remained a vocal critic of Trump from within the country.
4. Samuel L. Jackson
The iconic actor jestingly threatened to relocate to South Africa, citing his disapproval of Trump’s policies. While Jackson never left the United States, his comments expressed the blatant frustrations shared by many in Hollywood.
5. Lena Dunham
Girls creator threatened to move to Canada if Trump was elected president. Similar to many on this list, Dunham also did not move but remained vocal about her opposition to Trump’s presidency.
6. Amy Schumer
Comedian and actress Amy Schumer joked that she would move to Spain if Trump won. Schumer kept working in the United States and leveraged her platform to raise awareness for progressive issues.
7. Bryan Cranston
The Breaking Bad star said he would consider leaving the country if Trump were elected, citing his concerns for the nation’s future. Cranston later clarified that he intended to stay and fight for what he believes in.
8. Chelsea Handler
The comedian and TV personality vowed she’d relocate north to Canada if Trump won, even allegedly scouting out property. However, Handler stayed put in America, continuing her work and activism.
Why Did They Stay?
While these announcements garnered headlines, most of the celebrities subsequently remained in the United States. Others say that such statements were hyperbolic and a way of emphasizing just how distraught they were to see Trump in office. Critics note that such a plan would be counterproductive: leaving the United States would not provide them with the same platform from which to effect change or voice their dissent.
The Takeaway
Celebrities have long been known for using their lofty platforms to make bold statements, usually during times of high political tension. None of these personalities ever made good on their threats to leave the U.S., but their comments revealed how divisive Trump’s presidency was and still could be today.
As the political career of Trump continues to be a significant headliner, similar sentiments may resurface, reflecting the ongoing divide in the U.S. political landscape.
