Ex-Trump campaign advisors back Berisha in Albanian elections against PM Rama

Former campaign advisors of President Donald Trump are taking on a new challenge in the Balkans, throwing their support behind the right-wing Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha in Albania’s upcoming parliamentary elections. Chris LaCivita, Paul Manafort, and Tony Fabrizio are part of the team backing Berisha, who is facing off against the Socialist Party leader and Prime Minister Edi Rama.

LaCivita drew parallels between Trump and Berisha, stating that both leaders have been unfairly targeted and persecuted by their governments. He emphasized the importance of the Albanian election on a global scale, pointing to the influence of the Soros family in destabilizing politics around the world. LaCivita accused the Soros family of creating an insecure environment in Albania, with Prime Minister Rama as their ally.

The Soros family’s Open Society Foundations has invested heavily in Albania, raising concerns about foreign interference in the country’s politics. Berisha highlighted the challenges he faces in the election, including sanctions imposed by the Biden administration for alleged corruption. He expressed frustration at not being able to engage with Albanian Americans due to the sanctions.

The State Department has not indicated any movement on lifting sanctions against Berisha, raising questions about the impact on free and fair elections in Albania. Berisha and other opposition candidates have faced legal challenges and corruption allegations in the lead-up to the elections, further complicating the political landscape.

Former Albanian Ambassador Agim Nesho warned of a repressive regime under the ruling Socialist Party, accusing them of silencing dissent and manipulating state institutions. Nesho called for the Trump administration to monitor the elections closely and support the Albanian people in their quest for democracy and freedom.

Despite polling suggesting a lead for Prime Minister Rama’s Socialist Party, the inclusion of Albanians living abroad in the voting process and uncertainties in polling data leave room for Berisha to secure victory. The upcoming elections in Albania could be a turning point, with the potential for a true grassroots movement to challenge corruption and restore democratic principles in the country.