Poll Reveals Diverse Political Leanings Among Russian-Speaking Israelis

A comprehensive survey by Newsru.co.il ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections indicates that the Russian-speaking Israeli electorate is far from monolithic, with political preferences shaped by age, length of immigration, origin country, and socioeconomic status. While the overall tendency leans rightward, significant divisions exist within the community.

On the right (54% of respondents), the primary contest is between Yisrael Beiteinu (31%) and Likud (30%), with religious-right blocs trailing. Benjamin Netanyahu is the clear favorite for prime minister among this group (46%). Centrist voters (33%) show more diversity, favoring Yisrael Beiteinu (35%), Naftali Bennett's "Bayit Yehudi" (21%), and Gadi Eisenkot's "Hosen L'Yisrael" (16%). Avigdor Lieberman is the preferred prime minister for this segment (28%). The left wing, representing only 4% of the surveyed audience, largely supports the "Democratim" party led by Yair Golan (60%).

Age and immigration duration are critical factors. Voters under 40, comprising 15% of the audience, lean towards "Bayit Yehudi" (23%), while older generations predominantly support Yisrael Beiteinu and Likud. Those who immigrated more recently (2022-2026) show an unexpected preference for the left-wing "Democratim" party, whereas longer-term residents tend to favor right-wing parties and Netanyahu. The longer an immigrant has lived in Israel, the more likely they are to support right-wing parties and Netanyahu.

Geographical and origin factors also play a role. Yisrael Beiteinu is strongest among immigrants from Moldova (56%), Belarus (41%), and Ukraine (39%), surpassing support from those originating from Russia or arriving before the Soviet Union's collapse. Likud and Netanyahu are traditionally strong in the Jerusalem district and Judea and Samaria (up to 40% support for the PM), while Yisrael Beiteinu and Lieberman see their highest support in the south of the country (up to 39%).

Socioeconomic status correlates with political choice. Among lower-income individuals (under 5,000 shekels), Yisrael Beiteinu leads (40%), with Lieberman as the preferred prime minister. As income rises, Likud's position strengthens, and Netanyahu's popularity increases (29% of the highest earners choose Likud, and 41% see Netanyahu as prime minister). Yisrael Beiteinu maintains a lead across various educational and professional categories, from those with academic degrees (26%) to those with vocational training (43%).