Eva Longoria, actress and political activist, has revealed her decision to leave the United States following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. In a candid interview with Marie Claire, the former Desperate Housewives star described the U.S. as “dystopian” and shared her plans to split her time between Spain and Mexico.
Longoria didn’t mince words about her disillusionment with the state of the country. She voiced concerns about Trump’s policies and rhetoric, describing his election as a troubling sign for America’s future.
“The shocking part is not that he won,” Longoria said, “it’s that a convicted criminal who spews so much hate could hold the highest office.”
The actress, known for her outspoken political activism, expressed fears about what Trump’s leadership could mean for marginalized communities.
“The country is a scary place,” she continued. “If he keeps his promises, it’s going to be a scary place.”
Longoria, a long-time resident of California, cited growing frustrations with the state’s issues, including rising homelessness and high taxes. Though she once championed progressive causes in the Golden State, she now feels the chapter of her life there is over.
“Whether it’s the homelessness or the taxes—not that I want to criticize California—but it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.”
Her decision to leave the U.S. wasn’t solely driven by personal dissatisfaction. Longoria acknowledged her privilege in being able to escape, noting that most Americans don’t have the same options.
“I’m privileged,” she admitted. “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.”
Longoria also spoke passionately about immigration and the border crisis, criticizing the hypocrisy she perceives in American attitudes toward Latino culture.
“The people who were screaming, ‘Build that wall!’ are the same people that are going to Taco Tuesday,” she remarked. “And I’m like, ‘No, no, no. You don’t get to margarita out and shit on the culture that gave you the taco and the margarita.’”
She argued that while many Americans enjoy the benefits of Latino culture, they simultaneously support policies that harm the communities that created it.
Despite her physical relocation, Longoria remains deeply involved in American politics. She spent much of the summer campaigning for Vice President Kamala Harris, rallying volunteers, and advocating for Democratic candidates across the country.
Marie Claire noted that Longoria has become more than just a celebrity advocate. The Washington Post once dubbed her a “political power broker” for her efforts to mobilize women and Latinos. In the 2024 election, she played a crucial role in supporting Hispanic Democratic candidates, leveraging her influence to encourage voter turnout.
Reflecting on the loss, Longoria said she was still processing Harris’s defeat.
“I would like to think our fight continues,” she said. “But I can’t pretend I know what’s coming next.”
While her move abroad may seem like an escape, Longoria emphasized her commitment to the causes she holds dear. She remains hopeful that her work can contribute to a better future, even if she feels safer doing it from afar.
“My heart is still with the people who are fighting for justice and equality in America,” Longoria said. “But for now, I need to take a step back and focus on where I can make the most impact.”
For now, the actress-turned-activist says she’s focused on maintaining her advocacy work while finding solace in her new homes. “This isn’t goodbye,” she assured her supporters. “It’s just a new way of fighting the same fight.”
