Ex-IDF General Ofer Winter Campaigns Amidst Election Day Skepticism
Translated & summarized from Haaretz by baba
Ofer Winter, chairman of 'Amcha Israel,' campaigned on election day, expressing certainty his party would surpass the electoral threshold and join a Netanyahu-led government. Despite his confidence, voters and residents in his hometown voiced skepticism and concerns about him potentially harming the right-wing bloc. Winter maintained his commitment to unity and decisiveness, citing support from Rabbi David Abuchatzeira.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Ofer Winter expressed confidence in his party passing the electoral threshold and uniting the public.
- Voters questioned Winter's impact on the right-wing bloc and his political inexperience.
- Winter reiterated his commitment to join only a government led by Netanyahu.
- He cited support from Rabbi David Abuchatzeira, who allegedly believes Winter will pass the threshold.
- Winter denied regretting his pledge to join only a Netanyahu-led government.
Ofer Winter, chairman of the 'Amcha Israel' party and a former commander of the Givati Brigade, was seen campaigning on election day, engaging with voters in northern Israel. Despite his confidence in surpassing the electoral threshold, many voters expressed doubt, with some urging him not to "ruin the right-wing vote." Winter, who admitted to being new to politics, repeatedly stated his belief that his party would "bigly" pass the threshold and unite the public. He also reiterated his commitment to join only a government led by Netanyahu.
In his hometown of Kiryat Ata, Winter received a warm reception, though some residents voiced concerns about his potential impact on the right-wing bloc. He was also questioned about his past embrace of Gadi Eisenkot, stating that while they differ ideologically, Eisenkot "paid the highest price" for Israel and they should not fight "brothers." Winter also mentioned that prominent Rabbi David Abuchatzeira supports him and believes he will pass the threshold, despite alleged attempts by Netanyahu's associates to dissuade the rabbi.
Winter dismissed concerns about potentially causing a right-wing collapse, asserting that Netanyahu needs a strong partner. He also denied regretting his earlier statement about joining only a Netanyahu-led government, framing it as a tactical misstep due to his political inexperience. When asked if he would serve as defense minister under Eisenkot, Winter declined due to ideological differences but suggested Eisenkot's side might join his government. He concluded by confidently stating, "We will meet this evening."
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