Unleash Prosperity has deployed a billboard campaign across high-traffic zones in New York and New Jersey, accusing the states of losing population and wealth as residents flee to red states like Florida and Texas. The group’s ads, which feature slogans such as ‘New Yorkers aren’t moving up, they’re moving out!’ and ‘New Jersey isn’t moving up, families are moving out!’ have sparked conversation about the growing divide between urban and suburban areas. The campaign, launched in the wake of the post-pandemic migration, highlights that the movement of people and money is not merely a product of lockdowns but a long-term trend.
Steve Moore, the founder of Unleash Prosperity and a former economic advisor to the Trump administration, has emphasized that the migration from blue states to red states is driven by multiple factors, including high taxes, regulatory burdens, and the quality of life. He pointed out that even though the initial wave of migration was linked to the pandemic, the underlying trend has been present for the last decade. Moore’s assertions suggest that the migration pattern represents a broader ideological shift rather than just an economic one.
According to Moore, the movement of money and people is creating a more polarized nation, as those leaving blue states are not only escaping economic conditions but also moving to regions with different political ideologies. He argues that this polarization could be exacerbated if the current migration trends continue. Moore also highlighted the need for blue-state policies to become more business-friendly, to address crime, and to create more livable environments, emphasizing that current challenges in cities are driving the exodus.
Furthermore, Moore suggested that allowing school choice could be a crucial factor in retaining residents in blue states. He pointed to red states like Florida and Texas as models of success in managing their economies and reducing crime, noting that their low tax policies and strong law enforcement are key components of their appeal. Moore’s praise for Democratic mayors in cities like San Francisco and Houston indicates that he believes some pro-business Democrats can successfully reverse the trend of population loss by adopting policies that align with libertarian ideals.
Despite his criticisms of certain blue-state policies, Moore acknowledged that some pro-business Democrats in major cities have managed to keep residents and businesses by maintaining a balance between economic incentives and effective governance. He suggested that if blue states take these lessons and adjust their policies, the current migration trend might be mitigated, and a more stable population balance could be achieved in the future.