Greek American candidates have a significant presence in this year's US midterm elections, with more than 50 contenders seeking office in around 20 states as voters decide control of Congress and a range of state-level positions.
Their campaigns are attracting particular attention in Athens and Nicosia, as several have established records on issues relating to Cyprus, Greece, relations with Turkey and security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Chris Pappas in high-profile Senate race
The contest drawing the greatest interest is the bid by Democratic Congressman Chris Pappas for a seat in the US Senate.
Pappas is facing Republican John E. Sununu in the race to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen in New Hampshire.
Born in Manchester, New Hampshire, to a family of Greek immigrants, Pappas worked in the family restaurant business before entering politics and has served four consecutive terms in the House of Representatives since 2018.
His candidacy carries added significance for Cyprus and Greece because of his role as co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus.
Among other initiatives, he has opposed any return of Turkey to the F-35 fighter jet programme while Ankara continues to operate the Russian S-400 missile defence system.
If elected, Pappas would become the first senator of Greek heritage since Olympia Snowe left office in 2013.
Six Greek American lawmakers seek re-election
Six sitting members of Congress of Greek descent are also running for re-election, including four Republicans and two Democrats.
In Florida, Republicans Gus Bilirakis, Mike Haridopolos and Jimmy Patronis are standing for office.
Bilirakis, who has served in Congress since 2007, is regarded as one of the most active Greek American lawmakers on issues relating to Greece and Cyprus.
He has repeatedly raised objections to the sale of advanced US weapons systems to Turkey, citing Ankara's actions in the Eastern Mediterranean and its continued military presence in Cyprus.
Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, who is seeking another term in New York's 11th Congressional District covering Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn, has taken similar positions.
She has joined other Greek American lawmakers in opposing Turkey's return to the F-35 programme and has criticised Turkish claims in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Among Democrats, Dina Titus is seeking re-election in Nevada and has also participated in initiatives supporting Greek and Cypriot interests.
In New Hampshire, Maggie Goodlander, first elected in 2024, is seeking a second term against Republican Lily Tang Williams.
Key statewide races
Beyond Congress, several Greek Americans are competing for prominent state offices.
In California, Democratic Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis is running for state treasurer against Republican Jennifer Hawks.
The post carries responsibility for public investments, borrowing and state bond issuance.
In Illinois, Democrat Alexi Giannoulias is seeking a second term as Secretary of State against Republican Diane Harris.
In Nevada, Republican Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony is seeking re-election against Democrat Sandra Jauregui.
Strong presence in state legislatures
Greek Americans are also active in state legislative elections.
In New York, Democrats Andrew Gounardes and James Skoufis are seeking re-election to the state senate, while Republican Michael Tannousis is contesting a state assembly seat.
In Rhode Island, Democratic Senator Leonidas "Lou" Raptakis is running for another term, while Democrat Spyros Mantzavinos is seeking re-election in Delaware.
Why the results matter for Cyprus
The outcome of the elections is being closely watched in Cyprus and Greece because the presence of Greek American lawmakers in Congress has often helped raise issues affecting both countries.
US-Turkey relations, arms sales to Ankara, the Cyprus problem and security in the Eastern Mediterranean are areas where several Greek American lawmakers have worked across party lines.
However, shared heritage does not necessarily translate into a common political agenda. These candidates represent different parties, constituencies and political priorities, meaning their positions are also shaped by the interests of the states and districts they serve.
