Life in La-La Land and 'hit lists': Likud prepares for brutal primaries
This week, Likud polling stations will open for a high-stakes battle for only 15 realistic spots for incumbent Knesset members. Benjamin Netanyahu is utilizing 'hit lists' and working to curb the influence of Tali Gottlieb, though he may moderate his push for reserved spots due to internal party friction. Meanwhile, in online videos, he highlights political achievements while ignoring the week's events in the territories and the cost of living.
The best show in town, which will end with many more tears and broken hearts than happy smiles, begins on Monday at 10:00 a.m. Unless there is a plot twist, the Likud primaries will take place this week. According to decisions led by Prime Minister and Likud Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu, only 15 realistic spots remain for incumbent Knesset members. The battle is set to be difficult, brutal, and full of passion, featuring both support lists and 'hit lists'.
The 'hit lists' are coordinated from above. Benjamin Netanyahu seeks to reshape the Likud list and remove some of the Knesset members who, in his view, are distancing the party from victory in the October elections.
Based on his internal polling, it is clear to him who needs to go home. Among other things, he is working overtime to reduce the stature of MK Tali Gottlieb and prevent her from being placed at the front of the list. Success is not guaranteed, as she enjoys significant popularity according to all polls, which also leads her to state what many are thinking: 'The current government is mediocre.' This is the same Tali Gottlieb for whom Benjamin Netanyahu 'killed himself' in previous elections to ensure she entered high on the list. It never occurred to him that her decibel level would exceed what he is accustomed to.
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In any case, the Likud primaries, as flawed as they may be, conclude the chapter of primary elections in the political system. In other parties, leaders will sit with their associates to decide who makes the Knesset list and who watches from the sidelines.
Then, the race will begin to be first in line at the Central Elections Committee to choose party letters. This is of particular interest to Eisenkot, Tropper & Hendel, as well as Erdan & Edelstein. They are already seeking an original and winning combination of letters, as they will have little time left to run a campaign that connects the party name to the ballot at the polling station.
