A Top AI Researcher Chose Family Stability Over the American Dream—Here's Why

Miki Habryn, a researcher at OpenAI, has made the decision to leave the United States and relocate to Stockholm, Sweden, prioritizing her family’s stability over a lucrative career in artificial intelligence. Habryn, who previously worked for Google and was employed by OpenAI from May 2024 to July 2025, cited concerns over political instability following the re-election of President Donald Trump as a key factor in her decision. She emphasized that her six-year-old daughter, Steffi, would benefit from a more secure environment with better schooling and a stable home. Despite the emotional toll of leaving her adopted home in San Francisco, where she had lived since 2007 and built a life that many would consider the “American dream,” Habryn believed the move was necessary for her family’s long-term well-being [1].

Habryn’s concerns about the political climate in the U.S. were amplified by her identity as an immigrant and transgender individual. She expressed fears about the potential risks of remaining in a country where her status could make her vulnerable to federal scrutiny or arrest. Her decision was not made in isolation—her partner reached the same conclusion on the same day, and the family moved to Stockholm in June 2025. They have since purchased a home and are committed to making the city their long-term residence [1].

The move reflects a growing trend of Americans seeking alternatives abroad amid political uncertainty. In 2024, applications from Americans to live in the United Kingdom surged by 26% compared to the previous year, and over 6,100 Americans applied for British citizenship—setting a record. Immigration experts have noted a sharp increase in inquiries about relocating, particularly after the contentious Trump-Biden debate in 2024. This pattern was observed in both 2016 and 2020, with demand tripling after the debate this year [1].

Despite the emotional and professional challenges, Habryn expressed confidence in her ability to find meaningful work in the future. However, she acknowledged the difficulty of leaving her role at OpenAI, which had been both professionally fulfilling and challenging. Her experience in the tech industry, spanning over a decade, gave her the security to make the move. Still, she described the decision as one of “grief,” particularly given the personal sacrifices involved [1].

The broader implications of this trend highlight a shift in how individuals assess political and social risks. For Habryn, the move was not an act of defeat but rather a proactive step to ensure her family’s future. She acknowledged the emotional weight of leaving the U.S. and expressed guilt over not fighting for change from within. However, for the sake of her daughter’s development, she felt it was necessary to create a stable environment where Steffi could grow without the turbulence that characterized recent U.S. political cycles [1].

The case of Miki Habryn is emblematic of a more complex and evolving relationship between individuals, their careers, and their environments. As political climates shift and uncertainties rise, more professionals may face similar dilemmas—weighing the benefits of career and innovation against the costs of personal and family stability. Habryn’s story underscores the real-world impact of political discourse and the tangible consequences it can have on individuals and their choices.

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[1] OpenAI staffer left America for Sweden because of Trump's ... (https://fortune.com/2025/09/01/openai-engineer-left-dream-job-sf-sweden-stockholm-trump/)