Gerr Hasidim Feared to Withhold Votes from Netanyahu Bloc
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
The Netanyahu bloc fears that the Gerr Hasidic community, representing over 30,000 votes, may not vote in the upcoming elections due to strained relations. The Hasidim have confirmed anger towards Netanyahu and are not currently encouraging their followers to vote, leading to concerns of an "Italian strike." This potential abstention could significantly impact the close election results.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Netanyahu bloc fears Gerr Hasidim may withhold over 30,000 votes due to strained relations.
- Gerr Hasidim confirmed anger towards Netanyahu and are not currently pushing followers to vote.
- Fears of an "Italian strike" exist, where the community is not actively encouraged to vote.
- Lack of election activity and indifference observed within the Gerr Hasidic community.
- Potential for votes to be cast for smaller parties, leading to wasted votes.
The Netanyahu bloc is concerned that members of the Gerr Hasidic community may not vote in the upcoming elections, potentially costing the bloc over 30,000 votes. Relations between the bloc and the Gerr Hasidim, led by MK Yitzhak Goldknopf, have reportedly soured during the last term, and no reconciliation has yet occurred.
Sources within the Gerr Hasidim have confirmed anger towards Netanyahu and hinted that they are not currently pushing their followers to vote, preferring to wait and see how events unfold. This has led to fears of an "Italian strike," a deliberate slowdown or work-to-rule action, where followers are not actively encouraged to participate in the election.
Observations on the ground suggest a lack of election-related activity within the Hasidic community, with no calls to vote, no campaign offices opened, and general indifference. There is also a concern that if they do vote, it might be for a smaller party, such as "Tzeva Shachor," which could lead to wasted votes below the electoral threshold.
The Gerr Hasidim represent a significant voting bloc, estimated at over 30,000 votes, and their potential non-participation could be critical in what are expected to be close elections. Netanyahu may need to take action to appease the community to secure their support.
