Bardugo and Others Tapped for Top Likud List Spots

Yaakov Bardugo is slated to be placed within the top ten of the Likud party's Knesset list, a move facilitated by the merger agreement with the New Hope party. This strategic placement is seen as a significant addition by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, bringing Bardugo into the party's leadership.

Likud officials are presenting Bardugo as a valuable political asset beyond his media persona, highlighting his understanding of the party's base and his ability to connect with right-wing voters. Supporters believe his inclusion will counter prominent security and public figures who have shifted to opposing camps, thereby strengthening the Likud's political and ideological message for upcoming elections.

Additional reserved spots on the Likud list have been revealed, including Amir Aviv, a former senior military official and co-founder of the 'Bishvistonim' movement, who aligns with Netanyahu's security doctrine of "decision, initiative, and security independence." Aviv's military background and ideological alignment are seen as crucial for Netanyahu's presented security narrative, especially in light of competition from figures like Naftali Bennett and Gabi Ashkenazi.

Lawyer David Peter, described as a leading jurist with a doctorate in progress, has also secured a spot. His background, influenced by his family's immigration from communist Hungary, has shaped his focus on constitutional law, governance, liberty, and democracy in Israel.

Elisha Medan, a reservist combatant and co-founder of the Avigil settlement in the Hebron region, who was severely wounded in Gaza and lost both legs, is another addition. His story of resilience and recovery is highlighted by the Likud as a symbol of strength and hope, providing the list with representation from the religious-nationalist community and a compelling personal narrative of combat and rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, the party's internal tribunal has imposed limitations on Netanyahu's maneuvering room regarding list placements. Candidates for reserved spots must be disclosed to secretariat members before meetings, and a secret ballot can be called if requested by 10% of attendees. This ruling followed a petition by David Bitan, though his specific requests were denied. The tribunal also criticized the Likud's legal advisor, Ilan Bombach, warning against last-minute name disclosures being perceived as improper maneuvers.