In a strategic move ahead of Albania's May 11 parliamentary elections, opposition leader Sali Berisha has enlisted Chris LaCivita, a prominent strategist from Donald Trump's presidential campaigns, to lead the Democratic Party's (DP) electoral efforts. This collaboration introduces American-style populism into Albania's political landscape, with Berisha adopting slogans like "Make Albania Grandiose" and campaign branding reminiscent of Trump's.

Berisha, who served as Albania's president from 1992 to 1997 and as prime minister from 2005 to 2013, has faced multiple corruption allegations. In May 2021, the U.S. Department of State barred him and his family from entering the United States due to "involvement in significant corruption." Similarly, the United Kingdom imposed a ban in July 2022 over alleged links to organized crime and corruption. Berisha has consistently denied these allegations, attributing them to political vendettas.

The DP has contracted U.S. political consulting firm Continental Strategy for $250,000 per month to enhance Berisha's domestic image and international standing, particularly within U.S. conservative circles. LaCivita's involvement signifies a strategic alignment with Trump-style populism, aiming to galvanize support by drawing parallels between Berisha's political journey and that of Trump.

This partnership has sparked controversy, given Berisha's history of corruption charges and international sanctions. The involvement of foreign consultants has prompted investigations into foreign influence and funding transparency in Albania's electoral process. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has deployed over 300 international observers to monitor the elections, highlighting the heightened scrutiny of the electoral process.

Incumbent Prime Minister Edi Rama, seeking a fourth term, has focused his campaign on economic growth and Albania's aspirations for European Union membership. However, his administration has been marred by corruption scandals, including investigations into failed incinerator projects involving contracts worth hundreds of millions of euros. These issues have intensified public scrutiny and could impact the election outcome.

The adoption of American-style campaign strategies in Albania underscores the globalization of political tactics and the influence of U.S. political culture on international elections. This trend raises questions about the authenticity of political movements and the potential for foreign interference in domestic affairs.

As Albania approaches the May 11 elections, the collaboration between Berisha and LaCivita highlights the complex interplay between domestic politics and international influences, reflecting broader trends in the globalization of political strategies.