Noam Party Official Warns Abstention Could Lead to Left-Wing Government

Shimon Toledano, Deputy Mayor of Beersheba and the second-highest-ranking official in the Noam party, stated in a recent interview that three Knesset seats currently held by undecided or abstaining voters could determine the outcome of the next election, potentially leading to a left-wing government. Toledano, who is spearheading the party's outreach to the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, emphasized that abstaining from voting is effectively enabling a left-wing victory.

Toledano articulated Noam's platform, highlighting the party's focus on issues affecting the Haredi sector, such as childcare, teacher salaries, and employment. He asserted that the Haredi public is seeking representation that addresses their specific needs, which he believes mainstream Haredi parties sometimes fail to do. He also noted a growing connection between the Haredi and national-religious communities, citing shared concerns for soldiers and hostages.

Regarding the contentious draft law, Toledano proposed a distinction: Torah scholars should be honored, while those not engaged in religious study should be drafted into authentic Haredi frameworks under rabbinical supervision, ensuring their religious observance is maintained. He criticized the current draft law as fundamentally flawed and advocated for the cancellation of sanctions against Torah students.

Toledano also stressed Noam's demand for the Ministry of Education in the next government, arguing it would provide the most significant leverage to address the salary disparities faced by Haredi teachers. He cited personal experience, noting his sisters are teachers suffering from these wage gaps, and mentioned his work establishing employment programs for Haredi women in the high-tech sector.

Addressing concerns about Noam's ability to pass the electoral threshold, Toledano hinted at potential political alliances and directly appealed to Haredi voters who are disillusioned. He urged them to vote for Noam to protect both Torah institutions and the right-wing bloc, warning that their non-participation would inadvertently empower the left.