Lapid Praises Bennett's List Ahead of "Achad" Party Merger

Opposition leader Yair Lapid on Sunday praised the list of candidates presented by Naftali Bennett, which is set to be part of the "Achad" party. Lapid addressed voter concerns about potential defections, referencing the departure of MK Idit Silman from Bennett's previous party. "Wait and see," Lapid told voters, "because I already know what a wonderful group he has gathered around him in recent years."

Lapid described Bennett's list as comprising "an especially excellent group of doers with soul, with great intelligence and experience, with values, loyalty, and friendship." He added that when the two lists merge that evening, it would become clear why they maintain that "what we have built is not a party, it is a government."

Bennett had earlier revealed his party's list, which will merge with Lapid's Yesh Atid party to form the final "Achad" slate. According to the revealed list, Bennett is slated for the first position, with Lapid in second. Keren Turner, from Bennett's faction, is expected to be third, followed by Merav Ben Ari from Lapid's faction in fourth, and Liran Avishar Ben Horin from Bennett's faction in fifth.

Of the top 16 spots on the combined list, nine are allocated to Bennett's nominees, including the top spot. Seven spots are allocated to Lapid's nominees, including the second position.