The Likud party held internal primaries on Monday to select its candidate slate for the upcoming Israeli general election.
These primaries determine the party's leadership structure and legislative priorities. The process comes at a time of internal friction regarding the expanded control Benjamin Netanyahu holds over the party slate.
Reports on voter participation varied by location and demographic. A party spokesperson said the primary is on pace to exceed the turnout seen in 2022 [1]. However, specific locations showed different trends, with turnout at one Tel Aviv polling station standing at 19% [4].
Participation among ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, members was described as high [2]. This demographic shift within the party's voting base may influence the final composition of the candidate list.
The voting process takes place across Israel as the party prepares for national elections [3]. While some polling stations appeared empty, the overall trajectory of the vote remains a point of internal debate among party members.
Internal tensions have persisted over the mechanism of the slate controls. These disputes center on how much authority the party leader should have in determining the final order of candidates who will run for the Knesset.
“Likud primary on pace to exceed 2022 turnout”
The disparity between high Haredi turnout and low participation in urban centers like Tel Aviv suggests a shifting internal power dynamic within Likud. As Benjamin Netanyahu maintains tighter control over the candidate slate, the party's reliance on the ultra-Orthodox wing may further alienate secular members, potentially impacting the party's broader appeal in the general election.
