The distance from here to Washington, D.C., is vast, so our communication took place over the phone and via WhatsApp. It was midnight in Greece, while in the U.S., it was afternoon. His voice was steady and familiar, though his Greek was a bit shaky. I was speaking with Chris Marafatsos from the Greek-American community—specifically, Christos Marafatsos.
I hadn’t heard of him until I came across his name by chance during my research. He’s quite a figure in the political landscape—one of the most recognized members of the Greek-American lobby, a regular in Donald Trump’s inner circle, and closely associated with Kimberly Guilfoyle, who, as Chris mentioned, is set to join the U.S. Embassy in Athens by late summer.
What caused the delay? A labyrinth of bureaucratic procedures.
My discussion with Chris was one of the most politically intense I’ve ever had, taking over fifteen days to arrange. I aimed for spontaneity, but he carefully selected every word, each statement filtered through a lens of political strategy.
In essence, our dialogue was formal. However, based on what he shared about the political ties between Washington, D.C., and Athens, the prospects seem promising. He elaborated on various key points.
Regarding bilateral relations:
“Our relationship is strongly aligned. It’s exciting to see an increasing number of Greek firms investing in the U.S. or forming partnerships with American companies, significantly enhancing our economic relationship.”
On the U.S. President:
“President Trump is clear that under his leadership, Greece will not stand alone. The U.S. has a history of supporting its close allies—just as we stand behind Israel, we must extend the same support to Greece.”
On the future ambassador:
“I have known Kimberly since the early days of the Trump movement. She is a passionate advocate for freedom, an excellent communicator, and a patriot who grasps what’s important—for America and its allies. Kimberly respects Greek culture and the Church, and her approach will emphasize strong strategic cooperation between Greece and the U.S.”
About his political role:
“Currently, I serve as president of ‘Greek-Americans for Trump,’ working alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.”
So, I’ll hand it over to Chris Marafatsos for further insight.
Scene 1: “Hellenism as Our Moral Compass”
Who is Christos Marafatsos? What are his origins? What ties does he have with the Republican Party? What’s his educational background?
Our conversation began here:
“I grew up in Washington, D.C., with deep Greek roots. My father, George Marafatsos, emigrated from Sparta at the age of eleven, embodying the immigrant dream and employing values like hard work, faith, and honor in our family. My grandparents hailed from the Laconian villages of Krokees and Vordonia, unwavering in the face of adversity. My mother’s side is from Kardamyla in Chios and Athens, with my grandmother Despina instilling in us the belief that Hellenism is not merely a cultural heritage—it’s our moral compass.”
“I earned a degree in business administration from the Smith School at the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Finance from Georgetown University. For the last ten years, I have navigated the space where business intersects with foreign policy and governance, advising international firms and representing the U.S. in diplomatic settings.”
“Today, I am proud to lead ‘Greek-Americans for Trump,’ collaborating alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, and serving on the boards of CPAC and the Federation of Black Conservatives.”
Dimitris Danikas: What aspect of your Greek heritage do you cherish the most?
Christos Marafatsos:
“Filotimo. While it’s hard to translate, it embodies the duty to act honorably—not for recognition but because it’s intrinsic to who we are. The values of honor and responsibility to family and community guide my actions.”
“My grandparents faced hardships without complaint. They endured wars and poverty yet were always generous. In a world rife with entitlement, this foundation of character serves as my compass, influencing my beliefs, diplomacy, and community service.”
Scene 2: “Prime Minister Mitsotakis Deserves Recognition”
Danikas: Do you frequent Greece? Which locations resonate with you?
Marafatsos:
“Yes, I visit several times a year and have explored nearly every region—from Athens to Thessaloniki, the Peloponnese, and islands like Paxoi and Crete. Greece is more than a tourist spot; it’s an embodiment of history. For me, Athens, Sparta, and Chios are particularly special.”
Danikas: How do you perceive the current Greek government and U.S.-Greece relations?
Marafatsos:
“Prime Minister Mitsotakis deserves credit for maintaining stability during global upheaval. His administration has made strides toward modernization and enhanced Greece’s international standing. But true breakthroughs await with a second Trump presidency, as he amplifies alliances, thereby transforming U.S.-Greece relations from symbolic to strategic.”
“We’ve boosted defense cooperation, expanded energy partnerships, and engaged in meaningful trade discussions. Greece could become a pivotal hub for American investment in Southeastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa as these ambitions materialize.”
Danikas: Are U.S.-Greece ties genuinely that robust?
Marafatsos:
“Absolutely. From collaborative defense efforts at Souda Bay to significant investments in various sectors, our relationship is deeply intertwined. What’s exciting is the growing number of Greek firms now investing in the U.S., indicating a transformative shift in our economic ties.”
“The Greek-American community is a prominent and influential group in the U.S., serving as a living bridge between our nations, grounded in shared values of freedom, democracy, and faith that will sustain our partnership for generations.”
Scene 3: “Trump’s Governance is Historical, Not Just Headlines”
Danikas: What’s your relationship with Donald Trump and the Republican Party?
Marafatsos:
“My involvement with the Republican Party dates back to before Trump, particularly during the 2012 election. Since then, I have advised on diaspora engagement and economic policy. The emergence of Donald J. Trump in 2016 presented a leader whose vision aligned with the crucial historical moment.”
“I’ve served as an advisor to President Trump and co-chair of Greek-Americans for Trump, where I also held the position of Vice Chair of the National Diversity Coalition, working to unite communities around the cause of restoring American strength.”
Danikas: Have you taken part in the current election campaigns?
Marafatsos:
“I’ve been active through three presidential cycles, leading initiatives on critical issues and high-level diplomatic efforts. Currently, I’m on the executive boards of CPAC and the Federation of Black Conservatives, all focused on promoting bold, principled leadership.”
“I approach this not as a career politician but as a concerned citizen seeking results. My work emphasizes the importance of Greece, Cyprus, and Orthodoxy in U.S. foreign policy. I admire President Trump’s results-oriented approach that prioritizes history over headlines, which is crucial in today’s search for effective leadership.”
Danikas: What should Greece expect from Kimberly Guilfoyle?
Marafatsos:
“I’ve known Kimberly for years—she is a staunch advocate for freedom and a patriot who deeply comprehends the stakes involved for America and its allies. Having visited Greece multiple times, she appreciates its culture, understands its people, and values its strategic alignment with the U.S.”
“As the U.S. Ambassador, Kimberly will be uniquely engaged, available, and proactive in government, business, and faith, underscoring that Greece’s success is synonymous with America’s success.”
Scene 4: “A Meeting Between Mitsotakis and Trump Would Be Essential”
Danikas: Is Kimberly Guilfoyle a woman of faith? How will her spirituality influence her leadership?
Marafatsos:
“Yes, Kimberly is spiritually grounded. After her nomination, she reached out to prominent religious leaders to reinforce her commitment to faith and the challenges facing the Church in Greece.”
“Alongside President Trump, who champions religious freedom, she will advocate for Orthodox Christians globally.”
Danikas: If tensions escalate with Turkey, how will the U.S. respond? Will Greece remain safe?
Marafatsos:
“President Trump has made it clear that Greece will not be abandoned. America has historically defended its closest allies, and just as we support Israel unwaveringly, we must do the same for Greece.”
“Trump uniquely prioritizes peace and deterrence. His leadership upholds Greece’s sovereignty and regional security.”
Danikas: Is a meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Mitsotakis on the agenda?
Marafatsos:
“While I can’t confirm specific plans, I believe such a meeting would be timely and productive, enhancing our nations’ strategic dialogue as we embark on new chapters in security and economic partnerships.”
Scene 5: “Overwhelming Support from Greek-Americans for Trump”
Danikas: Is the Greek-American community backing President Trump?
Marafatsos:
“Absolutely, and it’s been historic. In the 2024 election, Greek-Americans provided extraordinary support to President Trump, particularly in battleground states where their votes were crucial, with 72-78% endorsing him.”
Danikas: What drives this substantial support?
Marafatsos:
“Trump embodies values cherished by Greek-Americans: religious liberty, national sovereignty, robust borders, and economic self-reliance.”
“They have seen how his administration elevated Hellenism and supported allies, from defending minorities in the Middle East to addressing Turkish provocations. This community has energetically mobilized during his campaign to fortify U.S.-Greece ties.”
In summary, the Greek-American community didn’t just vote for Trump; they did so enthusiastically, reaping significant benefits from his presidency.”
Scene 6: “Trump’s Foreign Policy—Strength and Results”
Danikas: What’s your perspective on current global trends and the future?
Marafatsos:
“We are witnessing a global reset after a turbulent geopolitical period; I believe President Trump will lead this change.”
Danikas: How would you characterize today’s American foreign policy?
Marafatsos:
“Trump’s policy is grounded in strength and effective resolution rather than prolonged conflict. I am optimistic that he will create pathways for peace, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.”
Danikas: Can you elaborate on economic policy under Trump?
Marafatsos:
“Trump seeks fairness in international trade. The idea is to renegotiate deals to ensure they benefit American interests and those of its allies. Diplomacy should come with a practical foundation, focused on shared prosperity and dependability.”
“I believe in fostering collaboration, security, and economic opportunities, especially involving Greece.”
Epilogue: “Those Who Move Boldly Will Rise”
Danikas: How do tariffs fit into this discussion, particularly concerning Greece?
Marafatsos:
“Trump’s approach to trade is about fairness, shaking off a system that has long favored others at America’s expense. This isn’t about isolation; it’s about creating a level playing field.”
“This period offers a remarkable opportunity for allies like Greece. Those ready to negotiate beneficial trade deals with the U.S. will emerge as preferred partners. We must redefine our alliance through friendship and strategic economics.”
He concluded with a resolute vision: “With the right strategy, we can significantly increase bilateral trade. Currently around $3 billion annually, there’s no reason we can’t reach $10-12 billion within a decade. Now is the time for decisive action.”
As our conversation wrapped up, I reflected: “Could it be that we are on the brink of a vibrant new dawn?”
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