“If You Have The Means, Get Out While You Still Can”: People Are Talking About Leaving Red States

2.

“The people arguing that every state has both blue and red areas are wild for thinking it doesn’t make a difference — or they’ve never actually seen both sides. I fled Texas last year during the election, and the move to Washington has been the best decision my family has ever made — not having to worry about my daughters accessing health care; not having to worry if they’ll be othered if they come out as gay or trans. We live in a state that actually gives a shit about the natural environment and takes steps to protect it and make it accessible. There are visible social protections and (relatively) common-sense legislation. If it comes to massive unrest, it’s going to suck no matter where you are because nowhere is going to be safe. But at least here I trust my state-level government not to make things actively worse — instead of happily going full Gilead at their earliest convenience. I also have a local community of people who I know will have our backs.”

“My kids are happier and thrilled at the littlest things — visible pride flags that haven’t been defaced, learning about Native American history in school, and community-sponsored art classes. If you have the means, get the fuck out while you still can — if for no other reason than you’re going to be a climate refugee if not a political one eventually.”

—u/cordial_carbonara