As concerns over domestic safety intensify, a significant number of U.S. citizens are contemplating leaving their homeland in search of a more secure environment. According to a 2022 Gallup poll, up to 15 percent of Americans express a desire to emigrate permanently, with even more considering expatriation when the opportunity arises.
Earl Wagner, a former resident of Houston, Texas, is among those who have made the decision to relocate. Now residing in Lisbon, Portugal, Wagner shared his experiences, highlighting the factors that influenced his move. “The radicalization of right-wing Americans and the pervasive gun violence around me were major concerns,” he stated. “In Houston, guns are so prevalent that I once had a gun pointed at me on a highway.”
Wagner’s story underscores a growing sentiment among Americans who feel uneasy about the increasing polarization and safety issues within the United States. The prevalence of firearms and incidents of gun violence have prompted many to seek alternative living arrangements abroad.
The trend of Americans looking overseas aligns with global patterns of migration, where individuals prioritize personal safety, political stability, and quality of life. For many, destinations like Portugal offer a sense of security and community that they feel is diminishing at home.
This shift has implications not only for the United States but also for countries like those in Asia that may become new homes for expatriates. Understanding the motivations behind this migration can provide valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and communities worldwide.
