The conversation between Ben Gvir and Netanyahu: demand to include Smotrich and the "electoral liability" argument
At a meeting between the Prime Minister and the chairman of Otzma Yehudit, Netanyahu demanded a merger with Smotrich, but Ben Gvir presented in-depth polls showing that the move would harm his electoral potential. Ben Gvir suggested including the chairman of Religious Zionism on the Likud list, but Netanyahu opposed it, arguing that the move could also harm his own party.
Benjamin Netanyahu and Itamar Ben Gvir met last week. During the conversation, the Prime Minister demanded from the Otzma Yehudit chairman: "It is mandatory that you join with Smotrich in one list." Ben Gvir replied that he was not prepared for this, as he believes Smotrich would cause damage to both sides. He presented Netanyahu with in-depth polls showing that a merger between Otzma Yehudit and Religious Zionism would significantly harm his mandate potential, alienate young people and first-time voters, residents of the periphery who do not identify with Smotrich, and even Haredim who are considering voting for Otzma Yehudit.
The Prime Minister agreed with these points, and Ben Gvir suggested that he include Smotrich on the Likud list. Netanyahu opposed this, clarifying that it would be a potential harm to the Likud as well, and that Smotrich constitutes a "real electoral liability." After the conversation, Netanyahu attempted to unite Winter with Smotrich, but due to the understanding that this merger is not expected to materialize, he has now moved to a campaign of explicit and public pressure against Ben Gvir.
