Bennent's New Party Sparks Backlash From Supporters Over Leftward Shift

Naftali Bennett's newly unveiled party list, "Yachad" (Together), has drawn sharp criticism from within a private group of activists and supporters, just one day after its presentation. Several participants expressed disappointment with the list's composition and its alignment with Yesh Atid, arguing that it lacks sufficient representation for right-wing voters and could hinder Bennett's ability to attract support from that segment of the electorate.

According to a report in Maariv, participants in the internal discussion group voiced strong opinions about the list's political orientation. One member stated, "We are establishing a left-wing party this time." Another responded, "That's exactly my point, we don't need Bennett for a left-wing party. The connection with Bennett was as someone who could transfer votes. But when the entire list looks like a continuation of Yesh Atid, then no votes are transferred."

Further discussion highlighted concerns that the presented lineup does not create a significant distinction between Bennett and Yesh Atid chairman Yair Lapid. One participant wrote, "It seems that Lapid could have brought this entire list just as well, and there is no difference between him and Bennett." Another added, "I have already expressed my opinion here, this has mainly reduced the ability to transfer votes from right-wing people."

The alliance with Lapid itself also faced criticism. One participant called the union a "mistake," while others countered by discussing Lapid's electoral strength and the potential to include right-wing figures to broaden the support base without alienating other voter demographics.

Beyond political alignment, the selection and placement of candidates also came under fire. One participant questioned, "How did Abir Kara not get in?!!! A big electoral mistake." This internal debate follows Bennett's presentation of the "Yachad - Led by Bennett" list, which he described as "Israel's team of doers." He characterized it as the "most talented, most effective, and most dedicated list to run for the Knesset in the last generation," emphasizing a focus on management and action-oriented individuals over well-known names during the list's formation.