Actress Eva Longoria recently made headlines by sharing her decision to move her family out of the United States, citing California’s mounting homelessness crisis, high taxes, and the political landscape as driving factors. The 49-year-old *Desperate Housewives* star now divides her time between Mexico and Spain, seeking what she describes as a “brighter life” abroad.
Longoria’s frustrations with California reflect the growing concerns of countless Americans facing challenges in liberal-led cities. “I had my whole adult life here,” she told *Marie Claire*. “But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then COVID happened, and it pushed it over the edge. Whether it’s the homelessness or the taxes… it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.”
Many residents who are financially able to leave California, Longoria among them, are opting out of a state struggling with policy-induced issues that affect both the middle class and the wealthy. High taxes and unchecked homelessness have caused significant dissatisfaction among Californians, sparking an exodus to states like Texas and Florida, where residents find more favorable economic conditions. But while many move to different states, Longoria chose a bolder path, setting her sights internationally.
While Longoria’s political dissatisfaction with California is evident, she also took aim at the country’s broader political scene, especially her dislike for Donald Trump. Although she criticized Trump’s 2016 election win, she acknowledged it wasn’t his victory that truly shocked her, but rather, *“that a convicted criminal who spews so much hate could hold the highest office.”* She reflected on how the election shook her faith in the political system, questioning if her vote really mattered. *“I truly believed in my soul that the best person wins. And then that happened, and I was like, ‘Oh, wait. The best person doesn’t win,’”* she said.
Longoria’s vocal dissatisfaction with America’s current political climate, however, has raised eyebrows. Many conservative observers see this as another Hollywood celebrity preaching from a pedestal of privilege, disconnected from the everyday challenges faced by ordinary Americans. While many Californians are stuck dealing with the impacts of liberal policies like high taxes and homelessness, Longoria and her family can simply “escape” to a more appealing life overseas. She even acknowledged her “privilege” in making such a move, saying, *“I get to escape and go somewhere. Most Americans aren’t so lucky. They’re going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them.”*
For conservatives, Longoria’s comments underscore the disconnect between Hollywood elites and everyday Americans. Those left to deal with the fallout of California’s policies are now increasingly concerned about the high costs of living, inflation, and the homelessness crisis, especially in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Many would argue that Longoria’s departure reflects a broader trend: those who can afford to escape the impacts of failed liberal policies are doing so, but unfortunately, that leaves many others to deal with the aftermath.
Longoria’s story serves as a high-profile example of Americans, especially in California, making the hard choice to leave rather than stay and address the problems in their communities. It begs the question for those who remain: what will it take to return California to a place where both elites and everyday people are willing to invest their lives and futures? As Longoria settles into her new life abroad, those left behind are calling for more than just fleeting celebrity sympathy — they’re demanding real solutions for the very real problems affecting their communities.
