Religious Zionist Voters Accused of Ingratitude Amidst Party's Electoral Struggles
The author expresses bewilderment at the current electoral standing of the Religious Zionist Party, attributing its struggles not to its leaders or pollsters, but to its voters. Recalling a past election where he was persuaded by a pamphlet to vote for the Mafdal party (a predecessor to the Religious Zionist Party) due to its investment in educational institutions and youth movements, he notes that many, including those outside the sector, benefited from these institutions. He questions whether voters can ignore these contributions and achievements due to complaints or aspirations.
In the current election cycle, the author has encountered individuals from various sectors, some even opposed to the Religious Zionist Party's values, who are perplexed by the party's position near the electoral threshold. These individuals reportedly call the party's voters "stupid" or "ungrateful" for abandoning a party that has provided so much. Some suggest the left has exploited a weakness regarding the conscription of Haredim (ultra-Orthodox Jews), causing the party to fragment.
The author speculates that a "deep public relations campaign" may have succeeded in dividing the party and labeling its representatives as extremists. He points to significant achievements, such as extensive construction in Judea and Samaria, the establishment of new communities, and the approval of tens of thousands of housing units, noting that these developments are unparalleled since the Six-Day War. He also mentions investments in "Torani-Mishimati" (religious-missionary) initiatives, the extensive network of Hesder Yeshivas, high schools, preparatory academies, and religious education systems, all of which benefit society broadly.
Furthermore, the author highlights efforts to strengthen Jewish identity, promote national service, advance sovereignty in Judea and Samaria to counter the idea of a Palestinian state, and the party's attempts to influence the military and government regarding the Oslo Accords. He also notes successes in reforming the justice system through the Constitution, Law, and Justice Committee, despite opposition protests. The article also touches on economic achievements under the current Finance Minister, which have reportedly impressed even left-leaning media, with some suggesting these accomplishments alone warrant at least ten Knesset seats.
Despite these perceived successes, the party remains electorally stagnant. The author concludes by suggesting that this situation, characterized by a lack of gratitude for tangible achievements, can be described as "ingratitude." He expresses hope that the Religious Zionist public will reconsider its stance, conduct self-reflection, and vote more thoughtfully, rather than being swayed by manipulation.
