Many Americans are rethinking their travel plans for Thanksgiving due to fears of potential unrest around the 2024 election. Emily Reeve and her husband, who usually travel for the holiday, are staying home in Portland, Oregon this year to avoid potentially volatile situations post-election. Industry experts and travel agents have noted a trend of consumers choosing to stay home during election periods, with Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian confirming that people prefer to be at home during elections.
Expectations of decreased travel around the election are backed up by data from airlines like Delta and United, with 64% of U.S. adults expressing concerns about traveling in the U.S. depending on the election outcome. Heightened security measures are being implemented at airports and surrounding both campaigns following the deeply polarizing nature of the 2024 race.
Despite these concerns, 38% of U.S. adults still plan to travel this holiday season, with fears of steeper costs abating. However, many are still hesitant due to political uncertainty, such as concerns about the economy and possible furloughs. Some families are even canceling travel plans altogether this year due to tensions around potential political conflicts during family gatherings.
Overall, the uncertainty surrounding the election and potential aftermath is leading some Americans to alter their holiday travel plans, staying home to avoid potential unrest or conflict.
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