Channel 14 Personalities Join Likud Party Knesset List

Several prominent figures from the Israeli right-wing Channel 14 television station have been placed on the Likud party's list for the upcoming 26th Knesset elections. This move signifies a significant shift for these media personalities, transitioning from their roles as commentators and panelists to active political careers within the Likud.

Among the notable individuals making the move are senior commentator Yaakov Bardugo, who secured the 11th spot on the list. Bardugo, a lawyer and media personality, previously hosted shows on Channel 14 and Galai Tzahal. He has resigned from his positions at the channel to focus on his election campaign.

Legal expert David Peter, a former researcher at the Kohelet Forum and a frequent legal analyst on Channel 14, has been placed at number 16. He has often represented the government's position in the Supreme Court. Also joining the list is Itzik Bonzel, father of fallen soldier Amit Bonzel, who has become a prominent voice for bereaved families and a regular panelist on Channel 14 shows. He is ranked 29th.

Former MK Eli Goldschmidt, who previously led the Labor party and resides in Sderot, will be placed at number 26. His political views have reportedly shifted following the October 7th events, leading him to become a regular guest on Channel 14. Erez Tdmar, a co-founder of the "Im Tirtzu" movement and a former campaign manager for Likud, is positioned at number 27. He has been a consistent panelist on the channel.

Brigadier General (res.) Amir Aviv, a regular guest and panelist on "HaPatriots," was initially offered a reserved spot at number 35 but ultimately declined it, opting instead to serve as an "external minister" for the movement. Meanwhile, Yaara Zerad, a host and political commentator for Channel 14, reportedly rejected an offer for a reserved spot on the Likud list.