The real hope for Albania’s Democratic Party after Trump’s win

Albania’s Democratic Party could benefit from Donald Trump’s electoral victory by focusing on its broader implications rather than pinning all hopes on the possibility that the new U.S. president might lift the sanctions imposed on their leader, Sali Berisha, and his family.

It has become typical for the Democratic Party to celebrate the successes of others, like the victories of VMRO in North Macedonia, pro-Serbian parties in Montenegro, and Giorgia Meloni in Italy, while glossing over its own struggles. Yet, aside from a shared alignment on the right, these parties have little in common with Albanian Democrats. For instance, VMRO-DPMNE in North Macedonia distanced itself from its U.S.-sanctioned leader to advance politically, ultimately winning elections without him. In contrast, Albania’s Democratic Party has tied itself closely to Berisha since his designation as non-grata by the U.S. Department of State.

However, there are still positive developments for the Democratic Party. Trump’s victory seems to have inspired a shift in their approach, which could positively impact Albanian politics.

Firstly, the Democratic Party has returned to parliament, abandoning its civil disobedience. Although these protests didn’t threaten the government or society, they only weakened the party itself.

Secondly, they now appear committed to participating in the 2025 elections. Previously, they seemed likely to boycott, as they did in the 2019 local elections, hoping for Trump’s support at the time. Now, with Trump’s return, they seem ready to engage rather than repeat past mistakes.

Thirdly, confidence in the fairness of upcoming elections has grown. Now, the Democratic Party believes that without George Soros’s influence—once blamed for “stealing” votes—the 2025 elections will be more impartial. Although they lost two elections under Trump’s previous term, they now seem hopeful that his return will help them win this time.

This optimism fosters a positive pre-election atmosphere, building public confidence in the process.

Fourth, the opposition has dropped its calls for a provisional government. With Trump’s victory, they seem to believe elections will be fair, negating the need for an interim administration.

Lastly, there is hope that Trump’s administration will lift the sanctions on Berisha, even if that outcome is uncertain. The anticipation itself has become a strategic motivator for the Democratic Party as they approach the elections.

In short, Trump’s win has given the Democratic Party a morale boost that could help calm tensions heading into 2025. Edi Rama may even have reason to thank the U.S. Republicans for this smoother political climate, knowing that if Trump hadn’t won, Albanian Democrats might already be claiming election interference from Kamala Harris. For now, at least, Albania moves toward its next elections in a more peaceful atmosphere.

The article initially appeared in Albanian titled: "Disa lajme të mira për PD nga Trumpi"