New Ultra-Orthodox Parties Challenge Incumbents Amid Discontent

Several new ultra-Orthodox parties are emerging to challenge established factions like United Torah Judaism and Shas in upcoming elections, fueled by widespread dissatisfaction within the community. Key grievances include the failure to secure a conscription exemption law for yeshiva students and a perceived lack of representation for working members of the ultra-Orthodox sector.

Moti Leitner, chairman of the "Hachareidi Tzion" party, is a prominent figure among the new entrants. He criticizes the current leadership for a disconnect with the public's needs, particularly regarding education and military service. Leitner advocates for integrating core curriculum studies like English and math into ultra-Orthodox schools and proposes that individuals not pursuing full-time religious study should undertake national service.

Another new party, "Ha'Kahal," led by Bnei Brak councilman Shlomo Elbaum, is pushing for internal party primaries to allow the public to select Knesset candidates, rather than relying solely on rabbinical decree. Elbaum has employed unconventional methods, including a helicopter, to publicize his party's message, drawing parallels to historical protests against rabbinical control over politics.

Despite the emergence of these new parties, established factions are not entirely dismissive. While confident in their ability to overcome the electoral threshold, they acknowledge the potential for lost votes due to voter apathy and disappointment, particularly concerning the conscription issue. A recent poll indicates that while a majority of ultra-Orthodox voters remain loyal to existing parties, a significant minority are considering new options, with Leitner's party attracting considerable interest.

However, the influence of rabbinical authority remains a significant factor. Many young voters, while expressing frustration, indicate their ultimate voting decisions will be guided by their rabbis' directives. The landscape is further complicated by another new party, "Achie," led by Rabbi Chaim David Yosef Aberjil, whose campaign faces challenges due to allegations of sexual misconduct.