President Donald Trump’s ambitious ideas to reacquire the Panama Canal and take over Greenland have sparked a different kind of geopolitical movement in rural Illinois and Oregon. Residents in these areas are advocating to break away from their states and potentially unite with neighboring states like Indiana and Idaho. They argue that they have more in common with rural communities across state lines than with urban centers like Chicago and Portland, where Democratic influence overshadows Republican voices.

In Illinois, voters in 33 counties have expressed interest in separating from Cook County to form a new state, citing disparities in political representation and cultural differences. Indiana lawmakers have shown openness to welcoming Illinois counties into their state, signaling a potential shift in state boundaries not seen since West Virginia broke away from Virginia during the Civil War.

Similarly, in Oregon, rural eastern residents are seeking to join Idaho, a move supported in nonbinding elections in 13 counties. Despite these efforts, the prospects of state boundary realignment face significant hurdles, including the need for approval from both states and Congress.

While historical examples of state boundary changes exist, such as the formation of West Virginia, recent attempts at realignment, like the Greater Idaho movement, have faced challenges in gaining traction. Geographer Garrett Dash Nelson has proposed redrawing state lines around metro areas, but acknowledges the immense obstacles involved in such a drastic shift.

The push for state boundary changes in Illinois and Oregon reflects a growing discontent with existing political structures and a desire for greater representation and alignment with like-minded communities.