Is it time to leave my very liberal hometown for good?

May 16, 2026

This week, I’m exploring the idea of finding a new apartment in Portland, Oregon. It feels like the right time to make a change.

It got me thinking. If I’m moving, why not consider leaving Portland altogether, a place that’s often dysfunctional and far-left?

Am I really going to stay here forever simply because I’m accustomed to Portland’s negative vibes? It’s a bit unsettling.

This could be my chance to relocate to a different city, or even a different state. Somewhere with less visible drug use and, well, fewer democratic socialists in local government.

Portland has been my home for most of my life. I’ve lived here on and off, balancing time between larger cities like New York and Los Angeles during my most productive writing years.

I always envisioned retiring here. Portland has always felt like my place. I appreciate the towering trees, gentle rains, and the misty coastline.

free radicals

However, Portland has become a hub for radical views and political intolerance over the past 15 years. It’s surprising how much that can influence daily life.

I’ve always gravitated towards creative crowds. Yet here, the arts community seems to often react more intensely than some of the protesters on the streets.

Once it became known that I hold conservative views, I lost about 80% of my writer friends. Many of my other friends drifted away too. This social exclusion intensified during periods like #MeToo, COVID-19, and the constant backdrop of Trump Derangement Syndrome.

Not friendzoned

As a result, life feels quite isolating, almost like being on a deserted island. I find myself feeling unwelcome at art events and steering clear of literary gatherings.

One painful example: I couldn’t attend a celebration for one of my most significant literary mentors—a cherished Portland poet who helped kickstart my career.

Not being able to say goodbye felt like a heavy loss.

small bubbles

I recently came across a TikTok of a woman whose family moved from Seattle to Wyoming.

Her message rang true: “No matter how aware you think you are of your bubble, leaving a far-left city opens up a whole new world.”

That got me thinking—am I clinging to Portland because I fear the change? It’s a bit of a conundrum.

my own private idaho

Still, I hesitate to move to a predominantly red state because I wonder if I’d really fit in.

Take Boise, Idaho, for example—the closest red city to Portland. I’ve visited frequently, and it is lovely. The kindness of the people stands out, and there’s a noticeable absence of homelessness. It has a strong community vibe, especially with its large Mormon population.

But would I adapt? I’ve always lived in liberal cities. Boise is a departure for me. Would I find people who get my sense of humor? Is there anyone who enjoys the obscure music I listen to or reads the same books?

While I can certainly bond with them over core values, I question whether we share the same urban tastes.

Go east, young man.

I have a Republican friend who made the leap to Florida during Trump’s first term—a significant move back then.

For several years, I kept in touch, asking how he was settling in. Florida turned out to be great for him.

As he thrived, I found myself increasingly uncomfortable in Portland. Now, looking back to his decision from a decade ago, it seems incredibly insightful. I’m humbled by his foresight.

Great escape?

So, what do I do now? Am I just another latecomer to places like Tampa, Austin, or Nashville, which became hotspots years ago?

I believe it’s never too late. I can still escape.

But what about the towering trees, the gentle rain, and the foggy coast that have always brought me peace? And then there’s the history that shaped who I am.

Robert E. Lee didn’t abandon Virginia during the Civil War, a state rich in history and culture. Meanwhile, I’m from Portland, recognized more for my bright orange hair than anything else.