Internal Tensions Rise in Democrats Party Ahead of July Primaries

The Democrats party is experiencing internal strife ahead of its primaries scheduled for July 20. Over 50 party members, including some from Meretz, have registered to compete for about 10 realistic spots on the party list. Party chairman Yair Golan, who holds the top spot, can also reserve two personal candidates on the list.

The party has been hailed as a success after approximately 85,000 members joined, forming the electorate for the primaries. However, internal conflicts persist, including a complaint against candidate Nimrod Shafir. It was revealed that a spokesperson for Shafir sent fake text messages to party members to falsely implicate fellow candidate Ronen Tzur. Shafir admitted to the incident, apologized, and the spokesperson resigned. Following this, Tzur withdrew from the race, accusing elements within the party of aligning more with the radical stance of MK Ofer Kasif than the moderate approach represented by Yitzhak Rabin.

The Democrats are considering fining Shafir for misconduct and have forwarded the complaint to external lawyers overseeing election integrity. Additionally, it was disclosed that party officials acted against Tzur even before he announced his candidacy. The party's legal advisor, Omri Segev, sent Tzur a stern letter accusing him of illegally holding party members' data and unlawfully sending direct mail, which violates privacy laws and constitutes a criminal offense.

An insider suggested that there was an attempt to block Tzur’s entry into the primaries, with Golan reportedly very concerned about Tzur joining the party. Golan commented, "It is regrettable that after two weeks he decided to withdraw in this manner." The situation highlights significant factional tensions within the Democrats as they prepare for the upcoming primaries.