The reverberations of Donald Trump’s victory in the 2020 US Presidential election have extended beyond the American borders, reaching as far as Scotland. Google search data reveals a significant surge in US-based searches about relocating to the Scottish Highlands, indicating a growing interest in emigration among American citizens. This trend suggests that a significant portion of the US population is seeking refuge from the political and social landscape that emerged following Trump’s return to the White House.
Specifically, Google data indicates that nearly 76% of relocation-related searches originated from the United States, with states like Oregon, Colorado, Washington, Tennessee, and Minnesota leading the charge. The interest in Scotland is not merely fueled by a desire for scenic landscapes and bagpipes. It reflects a deeper concern about social issues and a search for a more progressive environment. Search terms like “Scottish citizenship,” “is abortion legal in Scotland,” and “Scotland trans rights” have seen a notable rise, revealing a potential anxiety among some Americans regarding changes in domestic policies on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights under Trump’s administration.
This anxiety is not unfounded. Trump’s victory, secured by wins in battleground states like Arizona, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Georgia, Michigan, and North Carolina, has brought about a shift in the political landscape. Following the results, Vice President Kamala Harris reportedly called Trump to concede and offered her congratulations. President Joe Biden also extended an invitation to Trump for an Oval Office meeting to discuss the transition back to the White House, marking a significant moment in U.S. political history.
Responding to this surge in interest from Americans, Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, emphasized Scotland’s open and welcoming environment. “Donald Trump is a convicted felon and political extremist who has shown a complete lack of respect for human rights, democracy or our climate,” Harvie stated. “It is no surprise that people would want to get as far away as possible from his destructive rhetoric and the racist politics that he represents. We believe in a Scotland that is open and welcome to all, a country that removes barriers rather than building walls.”
While Scotland may not be the only haven for disillusioned Americans, its allure lies in its perceived progressive stance on social issues, offering an alternative to the political climate in the United States. The data underscores the potential impact of political events on migration patterns and highlights the desire for a more inclusive and progressive society for a segment of the American population. This trend is not just about seeking a change of scenery; it’s about seeking a change in values and a commitment to a future that aligns with individual beliefs.
