Young Haredi Advisor Builds 'Quiet Power' Within Likud Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
A young Haredi advisor, Elazar Gordon, is spearheading a movement of Haredi individuals joining the ruling Likud party, aiming to influence policy from within. Gordon explained the strategy mirrors the American model of engaging with major parties, citing the conscription law and support for Foreign Minister Eli Cohen as examples of their efforts. The group has already registered about 1,500 members and plans to expand its influence within the Likud.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Young Haredi advisor Elazar Gordon is organizing Haredi members to join the ruling Likud party.
- Gordon stated the goal is to influence policy from within, similar to the American Haredi model.
- The conscription law crisis was a major factor driving Haredi youth to seek influence.
- The movement has registered approximately 1,500 members and aims for further growth.
- Foreign Minister Eli Cohen's trip to Ukraine was cited as an example of mutual benefit.
A growing number of Haredi individuals are joining the ruling Likud party, a trend explained by 26-year-old Haredi advisor Elazar Gordon. Gordon, who has been active in Likud for three years, stated in a special interview with Kikar HaShabbat that the movement aims to influence policy from within the government party, drawing a parallel to the American model where Haredim operate within the Republican or Democratic parties. He emphasized that this is a "work plan, not an election promise," and that the goal is to advance shared values and strengthen politicians who align with their positions. Gordon cited the example of Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, whom they supported in his trip to Ukraine to assist Breslov Hasidim traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah, as a case of mutual benefit. Gordon acknowledged that the contentious conscription law has been a major catalyst for Haredi youth seeking direct influence within the ruling party, with the desire to ensure Torah scholars can continue their studies while also adapting military tracks for those not studying. He clarified that while 200 Haredi individuals have joined the Likud, he cannot legally inquire about their voting intentions, stating that what they do behind the voting booth is their own business. Gordon revealed that his network currently comprises approximately 1,500 registered members, with a goal to further increase Haredi influence within the Likud in the coming term.
