Organizers Say Trump Presidency Won’t Slow State Movements to Split, Merge, or Break Away

Eleven states have active independence movements in response to what they see as an irredeemably corrupt federal government.

A sign for the Greater Idaho movement is displayed in Joseph, Oregon, on May 12, 2023. Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images

Advocacy for state splits, mergers, or complete independence from the United States is going strong, even after President-elect Donald Trump’s win in November 2024 and his pledges to restore public trust in the federal government, according to movement leaders.

At least 11 states have active initiatives, including California, Illinois, New York, New Hampshire, Texas, Washington, Minnesota, Colorado, Oregon, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania.