New Study Finds Americans Fleeing Blue States In Droves For States Led By GOP Governors

A newly released study from U-Haul confirms that a mass migration of Americans from states led by liberal governors to those led by Republican governors continues to take place.

Fed up with high taxes, crippling business restrictions, and limited opportunities, in 2020 families and businesses demonstrated their disgust with the failed policies of Democratic governors by packing up their bags and fleeing to states with Republican governors. The pro-growth and pro-business agendas of Republican governors remain appealing to business owners, entrepreneurs, and working families.

In 2020, the top five states to experience the largest net-migration in the country were led by Republican governors: Tennessee, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona. Conversely, eight of the ten states to see the most outward migration were states led by Democratic governors. California saw the largest mass exodus of residents, followed by Illinois and New Jersey.

The influx of new residents and businesses to The Volunteer State can be attributed to the strong record of leadership from Governor Bill Lee.

I’m seeing a lot of people from California move (to Tennessee) because they’re attracted to our lifestyle,” noted Jeff Porter, U-Haul Company of Nashville president. “Tennessee has no income tax and is very business-friendly. There are plenty of jobs. People and companies are taking note.”

Unsurprisingly, similar trends have occurred in states like Texas and Florida. Companies and residents are escaping the high taxes in California and the New York Tri-State Area in a “tidal wave” for more economic freedom.

The correlation between inward migration and strong economic performance is well-established and indicative of the leadership by Republican governors. With people looking for jobs and opportunity, it is not surprising that they are moving to states with GOP governors. In 2020, eight of the top ten best states for business were led by Republican governors, as were seven of the ten states with the most favorable tax climates.

“With a focus on creating the best possible environments for businesses, workers, and families to succeed, states led by Republican governors are seeing more and more people become residents each day,” said RGA Deputy Communications Director Mike Demkiw. “People are desperate to escape the heavy handed, regulation ridden, big government approach pushed by liberal governors in states across the country for increased economic freedom and opportunity.”