Former Minister Karin Elharrar Departs Yesh Atid Party

Former minister Karin Elharrar announced on Thursday that she will not be running on the Yesh Atid list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Elharrar, who has served as a Member of Knesset for the past 13 years, stated in a message that after consulting with her family, she has decided to "move on to a new challenge." She expressed gratitude to party chairman Yair Lapid for bringing her into politics 14 years ago, calling him a "true leader" and a "friend and partner." Elharrar affirmed her continued loyalty to Yesh Atid, stating it is her "political home" and that she will participate in the election campaign.

Elharrar's departure marks the latest in a significant exodus from the party. She joins at least 11 other Knesset members from the outgoing 24-member faction who will not be on the list for the next election. This wave of departures comes amid internal pressure regarding list placements and declining poll numbers for Yesh Atid, especially after incorporating candidates brought by Naftali Bennett. Other notable departures include former ministers Orna Barbivai and Yoav Segalovitz, as well as veteran members Boaz Toporovsky, Meir Cohen, and Mickey Levy, who are making way for younger members. Elazar Stern moved to Benny Gantz's party, while Idan Roll and Ron Katz have left politics altogether.

Despite the significant number of departures, Elharrar and others leaving the list, such as Tatiana Mazursky and Debi Biton, have emphasized that they are remaining members of the Yesh Atid party. Behind the scenes, there is increasing pressure within Yesh Atid as the deadline for submitting party lists approaches. Many Knesset members, particularly those in lower positions on the list, are reportedly receiving subtle indications of their slim chances for a realistic spot in the next Knesset, prompting them to resign proactively.