Smotrich's Campaign Failed to Reach Wider Israeli Public
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionism party won only about six seats in the recent elections, a campaign outcome deemed a "stunning failure." The strategy focused on existing supporters and religious publications, neglecting to reach a broader Israeli electorate. Key achievements in Judea and Samaria were not effectively communicated to the public. The election results suggest a trend of voters supporting candidates based on identity rather than solely on policy agreement.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Religious Zionism party won only about six seats in the elections, a "stunning failure."
- The campaign primarily targeted religious Shabbat bulletins, failing to attract new voters.
- Key achievements in Judea and Samaria were not effectively communicated to the wider public.
- The election results indicate a trend of voters choosing based on identity and tribal affiliations.
- Smotrich's campaign reportedly recognized too late the need to broaden its appeal beyond its base.
The Religious Zionism party, led by Bezalel Smotrich, appears to have secured only about six seats in the recent elections, a result described as a "stunning failure" for a campaign that primarily targeted religious Shabbat bulletins. Despite Smotrich's efforts, the campaign is seen as having only convinced his existing supporters rather than expanding his base.
Critics point to a campaign strategy that repeatedly appealed to the "base" without a realistic plan to attract new voters. An example cited is a pre-election rally specifically for yeshiva students, a demographic already considered a reliable voting bloc. The campaign also failed to effectively communicate the significance of Smotrich's actions in Judea and Samaria, or the perceived existential threat posed by the potential establishment of a Palestinian state across Israel.
The article argues that Smotrich's achievements in Judea and Samaria, particularly in navigating legal obstacles without the same level of opposition faced by others like Yariv Levin and Shlomo Karhi, were significant but poorly publicized. It suggests that Smotrich's success in this area, which it frames as crucial for a strong Israel, should have been loudly proclaimed.
Regarding the performance of "Feiglin," the article notes that while he was highly visible on social media and in media appearances, his contribution of two to three seats did not represent a revolutionary increase from his previous independent run. The overall conclusion is that elections are often decided by identity and tribal affiliations, where voters support candidates who resemble them, even if they agree with their views. Smotrich reportedly recognized this too late, attempting to broaden his appeal by including figures like Reut Ben-Haim, but they were reportedly under-promoted, primarily appearing in Shabbat bulletins instead of reaching a wider audience with their message.
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