In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s unexpected election victory on Wednesday, numerous prominent celebrities took to social media and interviews to express their distress and thoughts about potentially leaving the United States should he reclaim the presidency.
Renowned music icons like Cher and Barbra Streisand, alongside contemporary figures such as Sophie Turner and Miley Cyrus, openly shared their fears regarding Trump’s political agenda, particularly its implications for marginalized communities, gun control measures, and women’s rights.
As these high-profile personalities reflect the prevailing tensions and uncertainties permeating American society today, join HELLO! as we delve into the thoughts of celebrities contemplating a departure from the U.S. following Trump’s re-election.
© Jerod Harris
Cher
The iconic singer and actress Cher discussed her intentions to leave the country if Trump returns to power during a revealing interview with The Guardian in 2023. “I almost got an ulcer the last time. If he gets in, who knows? This time, I will leave [the country],” she candidly remarked, illustrating her deep concerns for the future of vulnerable populations.
At 78, Cher articulated her anxiety about the Republican Party’s aggressive agenda aimed at dismantling the rights of marginalized individuals. “It’s something like 500 bills they’re trying to pass,” she lamented, particularly referencing the anti-trans movement.
“I was with two trans girls the other night—and, of course, my own child [Chaz is transgender]. I was saying, ‘We’ve got to stand together.’ I don’t know what their eventual plan is for trans people. I don’t put anything past them,” she added thoughtfully.
© Getty Images
Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand, another influential figure in Hollywood, has also voiced strong concerns about the potential consequences of a Trump presidency. In a conversation with Stephen Colbert, she declared, “I can’t live in this country if he becomes president,” suggesting relocation to England as her preferred option for escape.
Upon hearing the news of Trump’s re-election, Barbra took to Twitter to express her dismay, stating she had “no words left” while also commending Kamala Harris for her poignant concession speech.
“Kamala Harris sent us off with a hopeful message when she said, ‘Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.’ Thank you, Kamala,” she praised, reinforcing her hope for a brighter future.
© Getty Images
Sophie Turner
The talented Sophie Turner, known for her role in the acclaimed series Game of Thrones, revealed to Harper’s Bazaar UK that she made the decision to return to the UK due to the increasingly hostile atmosphere in American politics.
“The gun violence, Roe v Wade being overturned… Everything just kind of piled on. After the Uvalde [school] shooting, I knew it was time to get the [expletive] out of there,” she explained, highlighting her personal connection to safety and wellbeing.
© Axelle/Bauer-Griffin
Taylor Swift
While Taylor Swift has not explicitly declared plans to leave the U.S. if Trump returns to the presidency, her vocal critiques of his policies have sparked considerable discussion among her fanbase.
In a 2019 interview with The Guardian, she stated: “We’re a democracy—at least, we’re supposed to be—where you’re allowed to disagree, dissent, debate. I really think that he thinks this is an autocracy.” Fans have begun speculating whether she may choose to relocate to Canada should the political climate become untenable.
© Axelle/Bauer-Griffin
Sharon Stone
Sharon Stone, the celebrated actress known for her work in Basic Instinct, revealed her thoughts to the Daily Mail in July, stating her intention to potentially move to Europe if Trump secures re-election. “I am certainly considering a house in Italy,” she noted, reflecting a proactive mindset amid rising political tensions.
Sharon succinctly captured her sentiments, saying, “This is one of the first times in my life that I’ve actually seen anyone running for office on a platform of hate and oppression.”
© Manoli Figetakis
Whoopi Goldberg
Known for her candid critiques of Trump, Whoopi Goldberg voiced her possible relocation plans back in 2016, acknowledging, “Maybe it’s time for me to move, you know. I can afford to go,” she remarked on The View.
This comment prompted a biting response from Trump on social media, in which he quipped, “Canada doesn’t want you Whoopi, NOBODY DOES!!!” igniting a public exchange steeped in controversy. Although she did not relocate previously, her current plans remain uncertain following Trump’s recent election outcome.
© Karwai Tang
Minnie Driver
The actress Minnie Driver returned to her roots in the UK after spending nearly three decades in Los Angeles, primarily due to the unsettling political environment.
In a revealing discussion with The Times , she stated that she would not consider returning if Trump were to be re-elected. “If I lived in a red [Republican] state, no, I couldn’t [return]. But living in California, you are somewhat insulated,” she added, contemplating the benefits and drawbacks of political geography.
“But do you want to go and live in a bubble? Do you run away from the fire, or do you go back and help?” This compelling question reflects the struggle many face in navigating a polarized world.
© Robin L Marshall
Raven Symoné
The former Disney star Raven Symoné declared her intentions during an appearance on The View in 2016, openly stating she would seek to move to Canada if Trump won the presidency.
“I already have my ticket. I literally bought my ticket, I swear,” she expressed, creating buzz around her commitment to leaving the country. Although she didn’t follow through at that time, it remains to be seen if her resolve has changed in light of Trump’s re-election.
© Lionel Hahn
Miley Cyrus
Another disgruntled Disney alumni, Miley Cyrus, echoed her outrage following Trump’s victory back in 2016, famously declaring on Instagram that she would be “moving if this is my president!”
“I don’t say things I don’t mean!” she emphatically added, emphasizing her serious stance at the time. While Miley ultimately decided against leaving the U.S. then, her future plans remain ambiguous after the shocking election results.
© Pascal Le Segretain
Cardi B
The outspoken rapper Cardi B, whose family has Caribbean roots, asserted on social media during the 2020 election season that she would “move to the Dominican Republic” if Trump was re-elected.
Moreover, after a controversial U.S. airstrike under Trump’s command, she expressed her feelings regarding American safety by stating she was “filing for my Nigerian citizenship.”
Her emotional reaction conveyed the gravity she places on political leadership, asserting, “It’s sad this man is putting Americans’ lives in danger. Dumbest move Trump did to date,” showcasing her commitment to societal issues.
**Interview with Celebrity Culture Expert Dr. Emily Hart**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Dr. Hart! Given the recent discussions among celebrities about leaving the U.S. if Donald Trump is re-elected, what do you think is driving this surge in celebrity discourse?
**Dr. Hart:** Thank you for having me! The primary driver appears to be a combination of genuine concern for social issues and the emotional toll that political events have on these public figures. Celebrities like Cher and Barbra Streisand are not just worried about their own lives; their comments represent a broader anxiety felt by many regarding the potential implications of a Trump presidency, particularly affecting marginalized communities.
**Interviewer:** Indeed, Cher mentioned feeling anxious about the rights of marginalized individuals, especially trans rights. How significant is it for public figures to speak out in this manner?
**Dr. Hart:** It’s incredibly significant. When prominent figures like Cher use their platform to highlight social issues, it resonates with many fans and brings visibility to these concerns. Their willingness to consider leaving the country underscores the depth of their feelings, and it encourages public discourse on important topics like LGBTQ+ rights and gun control.
**Interviewer:** Sophie Turner cited safety concerns, especially after events like the Uvalde school shooting, as her reason for moving back to the UK. Is this a trend we’ll see more of among celebrities?
**Dr. Hart:** Yes, absolutely. Many celebrities are deeply affected by national events, and when real-life tragedies occur, it can push them to reevaluate their living situations. Turner’s decision to return to the UK reflects a growing sentiment among some celebrities who feel increasingly disillusioned with the climate in the U.S.
**Interviewer:** Taylor Swift hasn’t explicitly stated plans to leave but has been vocal against Trump’s policies. Why do you think she maintains that ambiguous stance?
**Dr. Hart:** Swift’s approach is indicative of a cautious strategy. She knows her massive influence can stir reactions. By emphasizing her critiques rather than outright relocation plans, she engages her audience in a discussion without alienating fans who may hold different views. It’s a delicate balance between personal beliefs and public persona.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the heightened tensions in political discourse, particularly concerning celebrities like Sharon Stone and Whoopi Goldberg. How do you see their rhetoric impacting public opinion?
**Dr. Hart:** Celebrities can wield powerful influence, particularly in shaping public opinion. When figures like Stone and Goldberg speak out against political figures like Trump, they tap into a collective fear and frustration. Their comments can mobilize fans to think critically about their own political beliefs and actions, potentially leading to greater civic engagement.
**Interviewer:** In light of this celebrity sentiment, what can we expect moving forward as the political landscape evolves?
**Dr. Hart:** We’re likely to see more celebrities use their platforms for political engagement. As the U.S. navigates through contentious political issues, the stakes for public figures feeling threatened also rise. This could lead to a further polarization of opinions, where some choose to vocalize their stances even more strongly, while others may opt for a quieter approach to avoid backlash.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Hart, for your insights into this fascinating intersection of celebrity culture and political discourse.
**Dr. Hart:** Thank you for having me. It’s an important conversation to have as we navigate these turbulent times together.