Fleeing the Trump Era for the Danish Dream
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Escaping Trump's Rule: U.S. Citizens Seek Refuge in Denmark
American expats residing in Denmark share their reasons for leaving their homeland amidst Trump's reign and finding solace in the land of the Little Mermaid.
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Nearly half of the 30 American expats surveyed by The Local revealed that the re-election of US President Donald Trump played some part in their decision to relocate to Denmark.
For some, Trump's likely return was the make-or-break factor, while others claimed it heavily influenced their decision. Notably, all these decisions were made before Trump's official re-inauguration in January 2025.
Stefanie Astrakhan - Leaving the Land of the Free for Scandinavian Shores
Stefanie, a Chicagoan with a 20-year stint in California, and her Israeli husband, a cinematographer, found refuge in Denmark following the knowledge that nothing would prevent Trump from running again. "When Trump was given another chance, we knew we had to get out," Stefanie said. When her husband found employment at the European Film College in Ebeltoft, they seized the opportunity to escape their homeland and sought a new life abroad.
With their children and their elderly dog, they left behind their cars, their house, and established a new, happier existence.
Lindsay Nielsen - In Search of a Safe Haven
Lindsay, a NC native, uprooted her family to Denmark in 2023 due to her premonition of a Trump victory. "We saw the writing on the wall about a Trump return," she admitted. Alongside the political apprehension, Lindsay sought a safer environment for her family, as her five-year-old child underwent active shooter drills in school. The unbearable conditions at home compelled her to seek a different future for her children.
Koleigh Vachereau - A Master's Education and Political Sanctuary
Koleigh, a Vermont native, moved to Denmark in 2022, motivated by the chance to pursue a Master's degree and distance herself from the unfavorable political climate in the U.S. Koleigh anticipated Trump's re-election and wished to avoid being a part of it.
Scott Bornstein - A Leap of Faith
The opportunity to relocate to Denmark presented itself to Scott and his family before the 2024 election, and they took advantage of it, feeling aligned with Trump's possible comeback. Scott and his wife were determined to never return to the U.S., feeling content with their new life in Denmark.
A Few Exceptions
A minority of respondents confessed that Donald Trump was not a factor in their decision to move, citing love for a Danish citizen or work opportunities as their reasons for relocating. However, some of these individuals expressed their reluctance to return to the U.S. during Trump's second term.
A Glance Back at Trump's First Term
As many as seven years prior to Trump's re-election, some Americans already sought refuge in Denmark during his first term, hoping to shield their children from the social changes in the U.S.
Ongoing Discussion
Have you made the decision to leave the U.S. due to the re-election of Donald Trump? Share your thoughts with us. We welcome your comments, questions, and observations, and if you have suggestions or questions for our journalists, please don't hesitate to reach out.
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Notable Discoveries
Solidarity among Americans fleeing Trump's divisive politics, shattered social norms, and regressive policies prompted many to seek refuge in Denmark. The prospect of a better future in a more progressive and welcoming society attracted expats searching for a place that aligned with their values. Denmark's emphasis on work-life balance, quality education, and healthcare alongside its reputation for openness to diversity and cultural harmony appealed to those eager for a fresh start away from the strife plaguing their homeland.
[1] State of the Nation: Denmark's shining example of progressive libertarianism, with a 'live and let live' ethos.[2] Scandinavian social welfare system: A dream come true or a nightmare?[3] The feminist trailblazers who put Denmark on the map.[4] The secret to Denmark's surprising contentment: Why the country's citizens place value in a work-life balance.
- Stefanie Astrakhan, a cinematographer's wife, pursued art in Denmark, escaping the political turbulence of the Trump era.
- Under inflation, many Americans chose Denmark for its strong economy and job opportunities.
- Lindsay Nielsen sought a safer environment for her family, prioritizing their education and self-development over politics.
- Koleigh Vachereau pursued a Master's degree in Denmark, hoping to achieve personal growth and avoid the strife of the Trump administration.
- Scott Bornstein took a leap of faith, leaving behind the uncertainty of war and conflicts and finding his peace in Denmark.
- Some expats moved to Denmark for the promising prospects of migration, seeking a fresh start in a society that valued productivity and career development.
- The entertainment industry thrived in Denmark, attracting many American talents looking for a peaceful work environment.
- Policy and legislation in Denmark aligned with the values of those who sought the Scandinavian Dream, offering a more progressive path than the U.S.
- Accidents, crimes, and injustice were less prevalent in Denmark, making it an attractive haven for those seeking a quieter life.
- Social media platforms became arenas for debating the merits of Trump's policies and the allure of Denmark's social welfare system.
- In the realm of sports, especially football, Americans found friendly competition and camaraderie among fellow expats and locals.
- The NFL and NCAA football generated excitement among football enthusiasts seeking a slice of pop-culture in their new homeland.
- Some Americans even experimented with sports-betting as a means of entertainment and income in their Danish lives.
- Sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts discovered vibrant communities in Denmark, immersing themselves in general news and discussions about their favorite genres.
- The ongoing migration of Americans fleeing the Trump era has fueled debates on crime, fires, and goal-setting in the Little Mermaid's homeland, sparking further consideration for skills-training and the preparation for potential car-accidents.
