Albanian-American Suzanna Shkreli announced her candidacy for Michigan secretary of state today.
Shkreli, 38, announced she is joining the Democratic race for secretary of state, seeking to replace Democrat Jocelyn Benson, who is term-limited and running for governor.
"There's a lot at stake," Shkreli told the Detroit Free Press in a phone interview Dec. 8. Citing a rise in extremism and threats to voting rights, "I really, really believe that our democracy is in jeopardy," she said.
"My name is Suzanna Shkreli and today I am announcing my Democratic campaign for Secretary of State in Michigan.
"My parents came to this country to escape authoritarianism. Now that those same threats have taken root here at home, I am ready to defend our democracy, defend our Constitution, and defend the right of Michigan residents to vote," she wrote on social media.
My name is Suzanna Shkreli and today I'm announcing my Democratic campaign for Secretary of State in Michigan.
— Suzanna Shkreli (@SuzannaForMI) December 8, 2025
My parents came to this country to escape authoritarianism. Now as those same threats take root here at home, I'm ready to defend our democracy, protect our Constitution,... pic.twitter.com/RzFm8q5vCQ
Who is Suzanna Shkreli?
With Albanian roots and a career built in Michigan, Suzanna is an advocate dedicated to social justice and children's rights. She is currently the Commissioner of the Michigan Lottery, an institution that generates millions of dollars for public education. Her path to success is not ordinary, on the contrary, it is an inspiring example for all Albanians living abroad.
After graduating from Oakland University and then Cooley Law School, Suzanna began her career as an assistant district attorney in Macomb County, specializing in cases related to violence and abuse against minors. Her dedication to children’s justice did not stop there, she also led the Juvenile Justice Reform at the state level. She is also one of the leading Albanian representatives in American public policy, working closely with Governor Gretchen Whitmer to promote inclusive and effective policies.