The speaker, a longtime Cleveland, Ohio resident, describes how a series of political events reshaped his sense of patriotism and ultimately led him to abandon his U.S. citizenship.
Early attitudes toward patriotism
- Grew up with a “precocious libertarian” mindset focused on low taxes rather than national loyalty.
- Did not feel any strong attachment to the United States until his early twenties.
The impact of 9/11
- The September 11 attacks triggered a brief period of flag‑waving and heightened national sentiment.
- Even then, the feeling was fleeting; he never fully embraced the surge of patriotism that followed.
Reaction to the 2016 election
- While living in South Africa, he watched Donald Trump’s victory with ambivalence.
- He considered voting for Hillary Clinton not because of policy alignment but because she represented the status quo and would have been less disruptive to his lifestyle abroad.
- The election reinforced his belief that both major parties were fundamentally similar, and that “America First” rhetoric did not align with his personal priorities.
Reframing the United States
- Describes the country as a “psycho girlfriend”: volatile, prone to outbursts, and unpredictable.
- Concludes that maintaining emotional distance is safer than expecting consistent support.
- Acknowledges that the U.S. still holds a strong global position, but that its internal politics do not serve his interests.
Turning point and renunciation
- At age 33, shortly before formally renouncing his citizenship, he experienced a personal overhaul:
- Cut ties with friends and business contacts he deemed “not a fit” or exploitative.
- Built a new support network of caring individuals, both non‑American and American, who shared his nomadic outlook.
- This restructuring of relationships clarified his desire for a life untethered to any single nation.
Key takeaways
- Political events can catalyze identity shifts: Major crises (9/11) and elections (2016) prompted the speaker to reassess his national affiliation.
- Perceived similarity between parties may push individuals toward non‑political solutions, such as relocation or citizenship changes.
- Personal networks matter: Replacing unsupportive contacts with a global community helped solidify his decision to become a digital nomad.
The narrative illustrates how a combination of political disillusionment, personal values, and strategic relationship building can lead someone to sever formal ties with their country of birth.
