Smotrich Gains Support from Liberal Religious Voters Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich is gaining support from liberal religious voters just a week before elections, a reversal from earlier assessments. This shift is largely attributed to his development work in Judea and Samaria, with events in Petah Tikva and settlements showing increased interest. Voters, including secular and less observant religious individuals, are reportedly swayed by his tangible achievements in infrastructure and settlement building, overriding past reservations about his statements.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Bezalel Smotrich is attracting support from liberal religious voters ahead of elections due to his development work.
- A significant number of people attended an event for Smotrich in Petah Tikva, a liberal religious stronghold.
- Development and infrastructure projects in Judea and Samaria are influencing voters to support Smotrich.
- Voters previously hesitant about Smotrich's statements are now considering him based on his actions.
- Smotrich is seen as a central figure for religious Zionism, even among those with reservations.
A week before the elections, a shift is occurring within the liberal religious public, with a growing number now considering voting for Bezalel Smotrich, the Minister of Finance and head of the Religious Zionism party. This change in perspective is attributed primarily to Smotrich's "work on the ground" and development efforts, particularly in Judea and Samaria. Despite past controversies and anger directed at Smotrich during the previous term, a significant segment of the liberal religious-national public is now showing a willingness to support him.
A notable event occurred in Petah Tikva, a liberal stronghold of religious Zionism, where Smotrich attended a Shabbat kiddush. Pollster Shlomo Filber, who attended the event, described the surprising dynamic, noting that over 150 people from a community that largely did not vote for the right in 2022 listened to Smotrich's views, including on the sensitive conscription issue. Filber suggested that if this community is a barometer, then even those who previously vowed not to vote for Smotrich might now consider it.
This trend is not confined to the central region but is particularly evident in mixed and liberal settlements in Judea and Samaria. Columnist Racheli Malk noted in Makor Rishon that infrastructure development and settlement building are swaying voters who might otherwise be wary of the religious establishment. She observed that a new square in her settlement is being called "Smotrich Square," indicating his growing influence. Malk contrasted this with the previous decade, when figures like Naftali Bennett and Ayelet Shaked represented a more modern, less heavy-handed religious right. Today, she hears Smotrich's name frequently, even from secular and "light religious" individuals who may not agree with his religious views but believe he will advance their communities.
Efrat Badichi shared her own transformation on Facebook, admitting she did not vote for Smotrich in past elections due to his past statements. However, her criticism dissipated after witnessing the "revolution" of development and infrastructure in Samaria, evidenced by roadside signs promoting the area's progress. She stated that actions speak louder than words and that Smotrich's tangible achievements make him a compelling choice, even for those with reservations.
As the election approaches, Smotrich is successfully repositioning himself as the central figure for religious Zionism, attracting voters who previously found it difficult to support him. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including concerns about a potential left-wing government, gratitude for infrastructure development in Judea and Samaria, and a search for political stability.
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