A number of conservative individuals and intellectuals, dissatisfied with the secular culture they perceive in certain regions, have been relocating to more welcoming communities across America. This trend is particularly noticeable among Christian conservatives who are part of the pro-Trump right.
One such intellectual center that has seen several key figures leave California is The Claremont Institute. Founded in the late 1970s and located in Southern California, it has been a significant influence on conservative thought for decades. However, some of its leading figures have recently moved to places like Dallas-Fort Worth area and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Ryan P. Williams, the institute's president, relocated to a suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in early April. Michael Anton, a California native and Claremont colleague who played a significant role in convincing conservative intellectuals to support Trump during his 2016 campaign, also moved to the Dallas area two years ago. The institute's vice president for operations and administration has also made the move.
Skyler Kressin, a friend of these leaders and someone who shares their concerns, left Southern California to move to Coeur d'Alene in 2020. He expressed a desire to be engaged in building communities that align with their values.
Trump supporters see themselves as part of a project that goes beyond electoral politics and involves reclaiming Western civilization values, such as larger families, fewer immigrants, classical architecture, and a revived conservative art movement. They envision stronger local leadership and a weakened national 'administrative state'.
