New Immigrants Show Distinct Political Leanings in Israeli Poll
A recent poll conducted by Newsru.co.il between September 9-12 reveals that the latest wave of immigrants, referred to as the "pumpkin aliyah" (those who arrived between 2022-2026), exhibit significantly different political preferences compared to longer-term Israeli residents. The survey aimed to foster dialogue by highlighting these distinctions.
Demographically, the "pumpkin aliyah" respondents are, on average, 12 years younger than the general respondents. They report lower Hebrew proficiency but comparable levels in other languages and slightly higher overall education. This group also tends to observe Jewish traditions less, with a higher proportion of singles and childless individuals. Their average gross monthly income is NIS 11,500, compared to NIS 13,100 for the average respondent, and they are more likely to describe their financial situation as unsatisfactory. Notably, fewer "pumpkin aliyah" participants are pensioners, and a significantly smaller percentage (3%) have served in the IDF, versus 17% of the general respondents. Geographically, 37% of the new immigrants reside in Haifa and the north, compared to 26% of all participants.
Politically, 44% of the "pumpkin aliyah" identify as centrist, a notable increase from the 33% average among all respondents. Conversely, only 29% identify as right-wing, significantly lower than the 54% average. Left-wing identification is 11% among new immigrants, compared to 4% overall.
When it comes to voting decisions, 64% of the "pumpkin aliyah" have decided on a party, though 29% are open to changing their minds, contrasting with the 77% of all respondents who have decided and 15% who are undecided. For new immigrants, key factors influencing their vote include party platforms on religion and state (63%), economy (57%), and security (54%). A significant 53% also prioritize a party's stance on establishing a state commission to investigate the October 7th tragedy. In contrast, the personality of the party leader is the most important factor for the average respondent (62%), though it ranks lower for new immigrants (42%).
In terms of party preference, the "pumpkin aliyah" show strong support for Yisrael Beiteinu (23%), "Bayahad" (16%), and "Democratim" (13%). This contrasts with the general respondents, who favor Likud (18%) and Yisrael Beiteinu (32%). When asked about their preferred prime minister, Avigdor Lieberman received 24% of the vote from new immigrants, while Benjamin Netanyahu received 15%. For the general respondents, Netanyahu was preferred by 27%, and Lieberman by 28%.
Regarding coalition formation, 41% of the "pumpkin aliyah" desire a government focused on power change led by Gadi Eisenkot, compared to 30% of all respondents. A broad national unity government is favored by 39% of new immigrants, similar to the 38% average. Only 9% of new immigrants want a right-wing and religious coalition led by Netanyahu, significantly less than the 18% average. The top parties new immigrants want in a coalition are Yisrael Beiteinu (64%), "Bayahad" (61%), and "Yashar" (60%). Parties they categorically do not want in a coalition include Yahadut HaTorah (60%) and Shas (57%).
