New Israeli Political Figures Gain Popularity as Traditional Party Lines Blur
A recent survey published by Israel Hayom reveals a shift in Israeli voters' preferences, showing growing interest in new political figures beyond the traditional right, left, and center divisions. Social activist Yosef Hadad leads the list, with 26% of respondents expressing a desire to see him in the next Knesset. He is followed by veteran politicians Hili Tropper (20%), Yaron Zelekha (17%), and retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter (15%), who, despite some public recognition, is considered a newcomer to politics.
Other notable figures include Yoaz Hendel with 12% support, and both Jonathan Shmoriz and Lucy Aharish, each garnering 13%. Former Home Front Command chief Dedi Simchi, former Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked, and former Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon each received 10%, matching the support for former IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi. The list is rounded out by MK Yuli Edelstein, Professor Moshe Cohen-Eliya, and social activist Itzik Bonzel, each with about 8% backing.
The survey indicates a blurring of traditional political boundaries, with voters supporting figures from both right-wing and left-of-center backgrounds. This concentration of candidates in the political center suggests a large number of swing voters who could determine the next prime minister. Political insiders note that while new candidates might energize the electorate, they also risk fragmenting votes below the electoral threshold.
Coalition sources commented on Ofer Winter’s candidacy, noting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously pushed for a joint run between Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. However, Netanyahu is reportedly reconsidering this strategy due to the survey results, which show Winter attracting votes away from Smotrich’s base, threatening Ben-Gvir’s ability to secure realistic list positions. This dynamic risks both parties falling below the threshold unless they unite, with potential leverage offered by Likud’s reserved slots.
Opposition leaders are monitoring these developments closely but await official list closures. They maintain contact with potential satellite party candidates while fearing excessive fragmentation could hand Netanyahu a victory. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett’s camp and the "Together" list argue that only a united bloc under his leadership can secure a liberal camp win, citing Hungary’s opposition uniting behind a right-leaning liberal candidate as a successful model. Bennett’s circle warns that division in the opposition benefits only Netanyahu.
