There are approximately 32,000 American citizens living in Switzerland, most of whom vote by absentee ballots in US elections.
Though there are no official numbers about their political affiliation, anecdotal evidence suggests that most vote for Democratic candidates.
Joanne, originally from New Jersey but who lives in Vaud, is a registered Democrat and said Trump’s comeback came as a "total shock" to her.
"I hoped until the last moment that Kamala Harris would make it, and take America in a new direction,” she said. “I am devastated that Trump is winning.”
This sentiment is shared by Michelle, who hails from Illinois and has been living in Geneva for the past 11 years.
“I just can’t believe the turn America has taken. It’s like everyone has lost their minds.”
“I am just glad I don’t have to live in the United States under Trump,” she added.
To Basel resident Mark, originally from New York, Trump’s victory, shows that “America truly is a land of opportunity.”
That’s because it demonstrates that “anyone, even a convicted criminal, can become president.”
What about Republicans living in Switzerland?
One opinion comes via Twitter from Karl, who told Swiss media that he voted for Trump.
"As an American living in Switzerland, I am taxed twice. Trump has made it clear that he is against this double taxation."
Parmi les participants au petit-déjeuner de la Chambre de commerce américano-suisse, ce matin, à Zurich, Karl. Il a voté pour Trump. "En tant qu' Américain vivant en Suisse, je suis taxé deux fois. Trump a clairement dit qu'il est contre cette double taxation !"@RTSinfo pic.twitter.com/SKGoBrzFCv
— Julien Guillaume (@_jugu) November 6, 2024
Double taxation means Americans abroad have to declare earnings to the US as well as the country they live in and meaning Americans could be liable to pay taxes in both countries, unless treaties are in place.
In the run up to the election Trump did say he would end America's policy of double taxation, although he didn't say how he would do it.
"You have been wanting this for years, and nobody has listened to you, and you deserve it. I'm going to do it and it's the right thing to do (...) this is an important element for your safety, security and frankly for your wallet", Trump said.
READ ALSO: What we know about US citizens living in Switzerland
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