Albanian-Americans continue to make their mark in U.S. politics, and one inspiring figure is Suzanna Shkreli. Known for her dedication to public service and strong ties to the Albanian community, Shkreli is now running for the office of Secretary of State in Michigan, a critical position responsible for overseeing elections in one of the nation’s most pivotal states during presidential elections.
 |
| Suzanna Shkreli |
Beyond her government roles, Shkreli is deeply involved in civic engagement within the Albanian-American community. She is a co-founder and board member of the Albanian-American Democrats, an organization promoting political participation and representation of Albanians in U.S. politics. Her community work highlights how immigrant communities can influence state and national politics while maintaining strong cultural ties.
In a recent interview with a local Michigan newspaper, Shkreli emphasized the urgency of her campaign, stating, “I truly believe American democracy is at risk.” Her words resonate at a time when election integrity and voter participation are at the forefront of national discussions. Running for Secretary of State, Shkreli will be responsible for ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections—a role that has never been more crucial.
Shkreli’s political journey is impressive. In 2016, at just 29 years old, she became the youngest candidate to run for the U.S. Congress in Michigan’s 8th District. Her campaign energized the Democratic base and brought attention to the growing role of the Albanian-American community in local politics. Now, she seeks to bring that same energy and dedication to statewide office, running in the Democratic primary to earn the right to face the Republican candidate in the general election.
The Albanian-American community in Michigan is closely watching this race. Their interest reflects not only pride in Shkreli’s accomplishments but also recognition of the community’s potential political influence. Michigan, often a swing state in presidential elections, makes the Secretary of State race particularly important. The office oversees voting procedures, candidate filings, and election security—key factors that can impact national election outcomes.
Suzanna Shkreli’s candidacy also underscores a broader trend: the rising involvement of immigrant communities in American politics. Albanian-Americans, like many other diaspora groups, are increasingly participating in public service and electoral politics, demonstrating that diverse voices can and should shape policy and governance. Shkreli’s campaign is an example of this growing engagement and the possibilities for meaningful representation.
As Shkreli moves forward in her campaign, she brings a combination of experience, community engagement, and youthful energy. Her professional background, combined with her understanding of the Albanian-American community’s needs and contributions, positions her as a formidable candidate for Michigan Secretary of State.
The significance of her candidacy extends beyond partisan lines. It is about representation, civic responsibility, and the belief that American democracy thrives when diverse communities actively participate in shaping the future. For Albanian-Americans, Shkreli’s campaign is a source of pride and a call to action, inspiring others to engage in public life, run for office, or contribute to civic initiatives.
In conclusion, Suzanna Shkreli’s run for Michigan Secretary of State is more than a political campaign—it is a milestone for Albanian-Americans and a reminder of the impact dedicated individuals can have on local and national politics. Her journey highlights the importance of community involvement, integrity in public service, and the ongoing contributions of immigrant communities to the democratic process.
We wish Suzanna Shkreli the best in her new challenge and celebrate all Albanian-Americans who actively participate in shaping U.S. public life.