Netanyahu Pushes for Channel 14 Ally Bardugo on Likud List Amid Fierce Internal Debate

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family have pushed to include Yaakov Bardugo, an associate from Channel 14, on the Likud party's electoral list, overriding internal warnings. This decision followed a heated late-night argument at the Prime Minister's residence.

Sources reported that the dispute involved two factions within Likud. One faction urged Netanyahu to focus on regaining voters who left the party, advocating for candidates like Elisha Madan and Tali Goali. They argued that Bardugo's inclusion would alienate these potential voters and undermine recruitment efforts.

Ultimately, Netanyahu decided to include both sides, securing Bardugo's spot on the list alongside other candidates. However, this move has caused significant concern among senior Likud officials. Their primary worry is that Netanyahu might appoint Bardugo as the next Justice Minister, a position Bardugo has previously expressed interest in.

This concern is amplified by past clashes between Bardugo and current Likud ministers. While Netanyahu appears to be supporting Bardugo currently, political analysts believe the true test will come after the elections, especially if current poll predictions hold, potentially limiting the number of ministerial portfolios available for distribution.