In what has become a long-standing tradition, Americans are once again threatening to “move to Canada” if a candidate they despise wins the U.S. presidency.
It’s unclear how many Americans actually follow through on such threats, but here are some numbers. Canada saw a 20 per cent year-over-year increase in new residents from the U.S. in 2005, the year after Republican George Bush won re-election.
That was followed by a 12 per cent decrease in Americans relocating to Canada after Barack Obama’s first win in 2009, and an 8 per cent increase in the year after Obama’s re-election.
Some of those new potential immigrants are worried about a Hillary Clinton presidency. Others are concerned Donald Trump will take the White House. Some, apparently, can’t stomach either.
If Donald Trump becomes president I'm moving to Canada
— Maddie Beasley (@MaddsB_) March 2, 2016
I swear I'm moving to Canada if it comes down to Trump and Hillary
— Keegan (@vKEEGANv) March 2, 2016
Rubio I believe in you. Bernie I believe in you. But I'm still moving to Canada either way I'm giving up on America
— sisternature (@TaySHarvs) March 2, 2016
Among those worried about Trump becoming president are those he has blasted in speeches.
I'm moving to Canada if Trump is elected. They love Muslims ✊
— Nader (@BonsaiSky) March 1, 2016
Of course, Canada isn’t the only country Americans are threatening with immigration.
If trump becomes president I'm moving to Canada or Thailand ✌
— Ticha (teesha) (@Trippyticha) March 2, 2016
This one kid said if Donald Trump becomes president, shes moving to Canada then the other kid said shes moving to Germany
— Tamarian (@SK1NNYM1NNY) March 2, 2016
Many Canadians welcome them, including a Toronto-area real estate agent.
@consideratehs welcome to Canada we have maple syrup and free healthcare
— hey im here (@haznlou69) March 2, 2016
If Trump becomes president Americans are more than welcome to come to Canada I have room in my shed and poutine for all
— kaly ✨ (@thigheskink) March 2, 2016
@theajthomas if you're moving to Canada I'm your gal. #clientsfirst #kmclaughlinhomes #LoveMyClients
— Katherine McLaughlin (@RealtyKate) March 2, 2016
Not everyone is coming purely for political reasons, however.
Taco Bells in Canada have Cheetos crunchwrap sliders...
— Dan Palmer (@Daniel__Palmer) March 1, 2016
I'm moving to Canada. pic.twitter.com/k6sfU8d1Cn