Samaria Official Quits Winter's Party, Citing Election Risks
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Daydi Ben Zion, Deputy Head of the Samaria Regional Council, has withdrawn from the "Am Israel" party's election list, citing concerns about the party's low poll numbers and the risk of wasting votes. Ben Zion, who initially joined the party out of a sense of mission, stated that his decision was based on national responsibility and the need to prevent a potential left-wing government. The "Am Israel" party acknowledged pressures faced by Ben Zion, while political figures like Bezalel Smotrich and Benjamin Netanyahu praised his decision and called on others to withdraw.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Daydi Ben Zion, Deputy Head of the Samaria Regional Council, has quit the "Am Israel" party list.
- Ben Zion cited concerns that the party is unlikely to pass the electoral threshold.
- He stated his decision was driven by national responsibility and preventing a left-wing government.
- The "Am Israel" party acknowledged alleged pressures and threats against Ben Zion.
- Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised Ben Zion's move.
- Netanyahu urged other party members to withdraw to ensure a right-wing victory.
Daydi Ben Zion, Deputy Head of the Samaria Regional Council and number eight on the "Am Israel" party list, has withdrawn from the election race. Ben Zion announced his departure on Facebook, citing concerns that the party's current standing in polls makes it unlikely to pass the electoral threshold. He expressed belief in party leader Ofer Winter, describing him as a "true right-wing man, a fighter and commander who dedicated his life to Israel's security." Ben Zion stated that his decision was driven by a sense of responsibility, particularly after his experiences during the October 7th attacks and subsequent reserve duty, where he learned that "the mission comes before everything else."
He explained that with two weeks remaining until the election, the risk of not passing the threshold was too high, and he did not want the votes of those who believed in the party's path to be wasted. Ben Zion affirmed his commitment to continue serving the residents of Samaria and the State of Israel in other capacities.
The "Am Israel" party responded to Ben Zion's withdrawal, expressing sadness over the "pressures, threats, and harassment" he and his family allegedly faced from individuals who opposed new forces entering Israeli politics. The party thanked him for their shared journey.
This decision follows recent reports that Ben Zion was considering leaving the party, a claim he had previously denied. The departure comes amid broader political discussions, including a recent controversy surrounding statements made by party member Yosef Haddad regarding a Palestinian state, which drew public criticism and reportedly caused the party to poll below the required electoral threshold for the first time.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich praised Ben Zion's "brave step of national responsibility," highlighting his military service and public leadership. Smotrich urged other party members to also withdraw to avoid splitting the right-wing vote. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also commented, endorsing Ben Zion's decision and warning that Winter's candidacy could endanger the right-wing bloc and lead to a left-wing government, urging others to follow suit.
Mentioned
