Latest news with #LibbyRodney
The Guardian
22-03-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
Exclusive: 20% of Americans support boycott of firms aligning themselves with Trump agenda
One in five Americans plan to turn their backs for good on companies that have shifted their policies to align with Donald Trump's agenda, according to a new poll for the Guardian. As high-profile brands including Amazon, Target and Tesla grapple with economic boycotts, research by the Harris Poll indicated the backlash could have a lasting impact. 'Companies and consumers are playing a high-stakes game of chicken – corporations betting on convenience winning out over conviction, while consumers wield their spending power like a weapon,' said Libby Rodney, chief strategy officer at the Harris Poll. 'The data suggests this is a miscalculation,' she said. 'When 20% of Americans are permanently changing their consumption habits and nearly a third of boycotters say they'll hold out indefinitely, convenience may no longer be the decisive factor companies think it is.' When asked about the boycotts that have been making headlines over the last few weeks, 36% of Americans said they are or will be participating. The strength of feeling varied significantly among people of different generations, races and political views: 53% of gen Zers and 46% of millennials said they are participating in boycotts, compared with 30% of gen Xers and just 22% of Boomers. Over half of Black (53%) and Hispanic (51%) Americans are boycotting, compared with 29% of white Americans. Democrats (49%) are far more likely to be boycotting now than independents (32%) and conservatives (29%). When given a list of reasons why they are boycotting, Americans said the top reason was they want to show companies that consumers have economic power and influence (53%) and express their dissatisfaction with current government policies (49%). Nearly half of those boycotting (46%) also pointed to companies rolling back their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies as a reason behind their boycott. It's difficult to track the tangible impacts boycotts have on companies and exactly how many people participate in them. Many start on social media, but other consumers have said they made the decision to move away from companies on their own. Some groups have coordinated boycotts within their communities in recent weeks, particularly in response to companies like Target, Amazon and Walmart rolling back DEI measures. Target, for example, ended hiring goals for marginalized groups, while Walmart said it will no longer prioritize finding suppliers that are women- or minority-owned companies. Some Americans feel companies are giving up core moral values in bowing to the president. The Rev Jamal Bryant, a pastor based in Baltimore with a large social media following, called on his followers to give up spending money at Target for Lent, which started on 5 March and lasts until 17 April. 'These rollbacks represent more than just corporate decisions; they reflect a deeper erosion of the moral and ethical commitment necessary to build a just society,' Bryant wrote on the website he made for the boycott, 'This Lent, we will begin a corporate fast, starting with Target, as a spiritual act of resistance.' Hispanic activists have similarly called on their community to boycott companies, calling it the Latino Freeze Movement. The movement calls for a boycott on companies that have scaled back their DEI initiatives, and asks for participants to not spend money on non-essentials 'until they show us that they care about our minority and immigrant populations'. Last month, a Harris poll found that 31% of Americans have reported similar goals to 'opt out' of the economy this year in light of the changing political climate. The companies have said that they are responding to a changing legal environment around DEI. DEI has been a flashpoint in the culture wars for years, with conservatives arguing that it unfairly discriminates against groups that have historically been in the majority, like white Americans. On the campaign trail, Trump vowed to abolish DEI, and he signed multiple executive orders ending DEI programs within the federal government as soon as he came into office. The impact that the administration can have on efforts in the private sector is still unclear, but some companies appear willing to risk losing customers instead of taking their chances.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Rise of the American Expat Dream: Increasing Interest in Moving Abroad and Dual Citizenship
The Harris Poll Study Reveals Economic Uncertainty, Cost of Living, and Political Climate Fueling Americans' Desire to Relocate NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / / March 4, 2025 / A new Harris Poll survey of over 6,300 Americans across three waves reveals a growing interest in moving abroad as economic challenges, rising costs, and shifting priorities reshape the American Dream. Four in ten Americans (42%) have considered or plan to relocate outside the U.S., believing it could improve their quality of life and financial stability. Interest is particularly strong among younger generations: 63% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials have considered moving abroad, with nearly one in five in both groups seriously contemplating it. By comparison, 35% of Gen X and 26% of Boomers have considered relocating, with lower levels of serious consideration The American Dream Has Evolved to the Expat DreamFor many Americans, the traditional markers of success-homeownership, financial stability, and upward mobility-feel increasingly out of reach. According to the survey, 68% of Americans feel like they are merely surviving instead of thriving, with this sentiment especially prevalent among Millennials, renters, and lower-income households. Additionally, 68% believe homeownership is no longer attainable for most American citizens, signaling a shift in long-held economic aspirations. "The American Dream is evolving into the Expat Dream," says Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer at The Harris Poll. "As social media fills with stories of Americans building high-quality lives abroad, more people are getting curious. They're not just imagining greener pastures - they're actively exploring new countries, researching locations, and planning strategic relocations. These Americans are prioritizing quality of life and safety, looking beyond U.S. borders to find it." Financial Strain and Social Concerns Fuel Relocation ConcernsThe top reasons Americans are exploring life outside the U.S. include lower living expenses (49%), dissatisfaction with the current political leadership (48%, up +6% since November 2024), and a desire for a higher quality of life (43%). The interest in moving abroad is fueled by concerns over affordability, healthcare, and economic uncertainty. Notably, minority groups increasingly fear their rights may be at risk in the U.S., further motivating relocation. 67% of LGBTQIA+ Americans believe their rights are becoming more compromised in the U.S., with higher concerns among Gen Z (78%) and Black Americans (75%). 58% of American Women fear growing restrictions, particularly among Black (77%) and Millennial (64%) women. 57% of BIPOC Americans feel their rights are under threat, with concerns spanning across racial demographics (65% Black, 62% Millennials). These concerns highlight how social and political instability are accelerating interest in international relocation. A Tale of Two Americas: Political Divide Drives Exodus PlansThe survey reveals stark political differences driving Americans' interest in leaving the country. Among Democrats, 49% cite dissatisfaction with the current political leadership as a major reason for considering relocation, while 37% of Republicans are motivated by concerns over shifting social policies and economic regulations. Independents, meanwhile, are more likely to point to financial strain and declining quality of life as primary factors influencing their decisions. "Following the election, Americans across the political spectrum are reevaluating their future in the U.S.," says Rodney. "Whether driven by concerns over personal rights or the search for financial opportunity, many are considering options beyond our borders." Top Expat Destinations Among those considering relocation, English first countries remain top choice such as; Canada, U.K., Australia, followed by the Instagram worthy lifestyles in France, Italy and Japan. Regions like Western Europe and Oceania are also gaining traction as desirable options for Americans seeking stability and economic opportunity. Here are the top 10 countries that Americans would most consider moving to: Canada United Kingdom Australia France Italy Japan Mexico Spain Germany New Zealand The New Safety Net: Second Passports and Global Options Dual citizenship is also becoming an aspirational goal, particularly for Millennials and Gen Z. Two-thirds of these generations (66%) express interest in obtaining dual nationality, primarily for expanded travel freedom, economic benefits, and cultural connections. The ability to work and retire abroad, along with better access to public services, are key factors driving this trend. "In an era of global uncertainty, securing a second passport is seen as a smart strategy for future-proofing financial and lifestyle decisions," Rodney adds. About the Survey This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by The Harris Poll across three waves: Wave 1: August 15-17, 2024, among a nationally representative sample of 2,121 U.S. adults, including 347 Gen Z, 630 Millennials, 506 Gen X, and 638 Boomers. Wave 2: November 7-9, 2024, among a nationally representative sample of 2,106 U.S. adults, including 327 Gen Z, 579 Millennials, 612 Gen X, and 588 Boomers. Wave 3: February 13-15, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 2,131 U.S. adults, including 304 Gen Z, 576 Millennials, 665 Gen X, and 586 Boomers. You can see the full findings here: About Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice Building on 60+ years of experience pulsing societal opinion, we design research that is credible, creative, and culturally relevant. Our practice drives thought leadership and uncovers trends for today's biggest brands, helping them stay ahead of what's next. To learn more, please visit About The Harris Poll The Harris Poll is one of the longest-running surveys in the U.S., tracking public opinion, motivations, and social sentiment since 1963. Now part of Harris Insights & Analytics, we provide market intelligence that helps businesses and policymakers make informed decisions. To learn more, visit Contact Information Tim Osiecki Director, Thought Leadership & Trends, The Harris SOURCE: The Harris Poll View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
04-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The Rise of the American Expat Dream: Increasing Interest in Moving Abroad and Dual Citizenship
The Harris Poll Study Reveals Economic Uncertainty, Cost of Living, and Political Climate Fueling Americans' Desire to Relocate NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire new Harris Poll survey of over 6,300 Americans across three waves reveals a growing interest in moving abroad as economic challenges, rising costs, and shifting priorities reshape the American Dream. Four in ten Americans (42%) have considered or plan to relocate outside the U.S., believing it could improve their quality of life and financial stability. Interest is particularly strong among younger generations: 63% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials have considered moving abroad, with nearly one in five in both groups seriously contemplating it. By comparison, 35% of Gen X and 26% of Boomers have considered relocating, with lower levels of serious considerationAmerican Expats Survey The Harris Poll The American Dream Has Evolved to the Expat Dream For many Americans, the traditional markers of success-homeownership, financial stability, and upward mobility-feel increasingly out of reach. According to the survey, 68% of Americans feel like they are merely surviving instead of thriving, with this sentiment especially prevalent among Millennials, renters, and lower-income households. Additionally, 68% believe homeownership is no longer attainable for most American citizens, signaling a shift in long-held economic aspirations. 'The American Dream is evolving into the Expat Dream,' says Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer at The Harris Poll. 'As social media fills with stories of Americans building high-quality lives abroad, more people are getting curious. They're not just imagining greener pastures - they're actively exploring new countries, researching locations, and planning strategic relocations. These Americans are prioritizing quality of life and safety, looking beyond U.S. borders to find it.' Financial Strain and Social Concerns Fuel Relocation Concerns The top reasons Americans are exploring life outside the U.S. include lower living expenses (49%), dissatisfaction with the current political leadership (48%, up +6% since November 2024), and a desire for a higher quality of life (43%). The interest in moving abroad is fueled by concerns over affordability, healthcare, and economic uncertainty. Notably, minority groups increasingly fear their rights may be at risk in the U.S., further motivating relocation. 67% of LGBTQIA+ Americans believe their rights are becoming more compromised in the U.S., with higher concerns among Gen Z (78%) and Black Americans (75%). 58% of American Women fear growing restrictions, particularly among Black (77%) and Millennial (64%) women. 57% of BIPOC Americans feel their rights are under threat, with concerns spanning across racial demographics (65% Black, 62% Millennials). These concerns highlight how social and political instability are accelerating interest in international relocation. A Tale of Two Americas: Political Divide Drives Exodus Plans The survey reveals stark political differences driving Americans' interest in leaving the country. Among Democrats, 49% cite dissatisfaction with the current political leadership as a major reason for considering relocation, while 37% of Republicans are motivated by concerns over shifting social policies and economic regulations. Independents, meanwhile, are more likely to point to financial strain and declining quality of life as primary factors influencing their decisions. 'Following the election, Americans across the political spectrum are reevaluating their future in the U.S.,' says Rodney. 'Whether driven by concerns over personal rights or the search for financial opportunity, many are considering options beyond our borders.' Top Expat Destinations Among those considering relocation, English first countries remain top choice such as; Canada, U.K., Australia, followed by the Instagram worthy lifestyles in France, Italy and Japan. Regions like Western Europe and Oceania are also gaining traction as desirable options for Americans seeking stability and economic opportunity. Here are the top 10 countries that Americans would most consider moving to: The New Safety Net: Second Passports and Global Options Dual citizenship is also becoming an aspirational goal, particularly for Millennials and Gen Z. Two-thirds of these generations (66%) express interest in obtaining dual nationality, primarily for expanded travel freedom, economic benefits, and cultural connections. The ability to work and retire abroad, along with better access to public services, are key factors driving this trend. 'In an era of global uncertainty, securing a second passport is seen as a smart strategy for future-proofing financial and lifestyle decisions,' Rodney adds. About the Survey This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by The Harris Poll across three waves: Wave 1: August 15-17, 2024, among a nationally representative sample of 2,121 U.S. adults, including 347 Gen Z, 630 Millennials, 506 Gen X, and 638 Boomers. Wave 2: November 7-9, 2024, among a nationally representative sample of 2,106 U.S. adults, including 327 Gen Z, 579 Millennials, 612 Gen X, and 588 Boomers. Wave 3: February 13-15, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 2,131 U.S. adults, including 304 Gen Z, 576 Millennials, 665 Gen X, and 586 Boomers. You can see the full findings here: About Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice Building on 60+ years of experience pulsing societal opinion, we design research that is credible, creative, and culturally relevant. Our practice drives thought leadership and uncovers trends for today's biggest brands, helping them stay ahead of what's next. To learn more, please visit
