Where Rural America Draws the Line, And Sometimes Wants to Move It
Across the United States, deep political and cultural divides are driving rural communities to consider drastic solutions: breaking away entirely. From Eastern Oregon to Upstate New York, frustrated regions are exploring the idea of seceding from their states—or even the country—to better reflect their values and way of life. Whether fueled by tax policies, gun rights, or a sense of being ignored by distant capitals, these movements share one thing in common: a desire to be governed by people who understand them. Some are symbolic. Others are gaining real traction. All of them reflect a country pulling at its seams.
1. Eastern Oregon wants to be part of Idaho
In eastern Oregon, rural communities often feel politically abandoned by the western part of the state. Thirteen counties have voted to explore joining Idaho, where conservative values around taxes, gun rights, and social issues better reflect local views. One resident said they just want to live under policies that respect their lifestyle. The Greater Idaho movement has grown steadily, fueled by public meetings and county resolutions. It may not happen overnight, but the momentum is sincere. People here aren’t looking for attention. They’re looking for a place where their way of life doesn’t have to be defended constantly.
2. Southern Illinois is tired of Chicago calling the shots
In southern Illinois, many folks say they’re governed by people who don’t understand how they live. Chicago’s dominance in state politics has left rural residents feeling unseen. The New Illinois movement aims to split from the city’s influence and create a state that reflects local values. Agriculture, gun rights, and low taxes are high priorities in this part of the state. One supporter told WCIA News that decisions come from leaders who’ve never even visited their counties. For many, it’s not about rebellion. It’s about creating a state that hears them, sees them, and treats them as equals.
3. Northern California still dreams of the State of Jefferson
The State of Jefferson movement began in the 1940s, and for some in Northern California, that dream has never died. Rural residents feel Sacramento doesn’t represent their needs or lifestyle. They’re frustrated by what they see as overregulation, underfunding, and cultural disconnect. Signs for the movement still hang along highways in counties like Siskiyou and Modoc. A local rancher told NPR they just want local decisions made by people who live nearby. Even if statehood remains a long shot, the push is more than nostalgia. It’s a vision for self-governance that still holds weight in forgotten corners of California.
4. Western Maryland feels closer to West Virginia
Western Marylanders often say they feel like outsiders in their own state. In 2021, officials from several counties reached out to West Virginia about possibly joining the state. They believe Annapolis lawmakers are out of touch with their conservative values and rural way of life. One Garrett County official told The Washington Post that the move was serious, not symbolic. While West Virginia welcomed the idea with interest, it hasn’t gone anywhere officially. Still, it reflects a deep divide. These residents aren’t trying to cause a stir. They’re simply asking to belong to a government that gets who they are.
5. Eastern Colorado wants to split or join Kansas
In eastern Colorado, wide-open spaces and conservative values shape daily life. Yet many locals feel decisions are made by urban legislators in Denver who don’t understand their needs. In 2013, eleven counties proposed forming a new state or joining Kansas. While the plan didn’t progress, it made a clear statement. People here want policies that respect agriculture, land rights, and rural industry. A commissioner told Colorado Public Radio that they just want local control over their own affairs. The feeling hasn’t disappeared. For many, the solution isn’t starting over. It’s finding a place that already understands how they live.
6. Upstate New York wants space from the city
Upstate New York stretches far beyond the lights of Manhattan, and many living there feel overshadowed by the city’s political power. From Buffalo to the Adirondacks, residents say their priorities differ from those in New York City. Over the years, proposals have emerged to divide the state or restructure how it’s governed. One local told Syracuse.com they feel like they’re paying for policies made by and for the city. While these efforts haven’t gained much ground, they reflect lasting frustration. People aren’t asking to leave New York. They’re asking to not be forgotten in a state they still love.
7. Texas still talks about going solo
Texas has always had a unique identity, and for some, that includes wanting independence. The Texit movement believes Texas could stand on its own thanks to its economy, land, and history as a former republic. One supporter told The Texas Tribune that Texans should decide what happens in Texas. While legal experts agree secession isn’t possible, the idea hasn’t gone away. For many, it’s less about leaving and more about resisting federal control. The conversation continues in homes, town halls, and state politics. Even without a new border, the desire for more freedom speaks loudly across the Lone Star State.
This story 7 U.S. Regions Where Political Divides Are So Deep, They’re Trying to Break Away was first published on Daily FETCH
