Otzma Yehudit Activists Express Despair as Election Hopes Fade
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Otzma Yehudit activists experienced a dramatic shift from election night optimism to despair as exit polls revealed significantly lower results than expected. Despite a last-minute rally and a determined public appearance by party chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir, internal confusion and concern persisted. A strict media blackout remained in place throughout the evening, highlighting the party's struggle to process the disappointing outcome.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Otzma Yehudit activists expressed deep disappointment as election results fell far short of expectations.
- A last-minute "Gevald" campaign by Prime Minister Netanyahu was blamed by some for siphoning votes.
- Party chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir maintained a public facade of resolve despite internal uncertainty.
- A strict media blackout was imposed on all party members throughout the evening.
- Activists felt their hard work was wasted as the anticipated historic achievement failed to materialize.
Activists for the Otzma Yehudit party gathered in a rented hall in Modi'in, expecting a triumphant election night with celebratory food and decorations. Initial high spirits and confidence in a historic achievement quickly turned to disappointment as early reports indicated significantly lower results than anticipated. Senior party members privately acknowledged that even a low double-digit number of mandates would be cause for celebration.
The mood shifted from optimism to despair as exit poll results began to be broadcast around 10 PM. Many activists felt their hard work was wasted, with some blaming Prime Minister Netanyahu's last-minute "Gevald" campaign for siphoning off votes. A strict media blackout was imposed on all party members, creating a vacuum of information and leadership.
Party chairman Itamar Ben-Gvir avoided the stage for hours, leaving activists and journalists searching for answers. While screens continued to display the candidates' hopeful "Welcome to the Knesset" messages, the reality of the low mandate count became increasingly stark and embarrassing. Most attendees eventually left, while a few remained, clinging to a faint hope that final results would alter the outcome.
Behind the scenes, party leaders held a closed Zoom call at 11 PM to coordinate messaging and strategize. Later, around midnight, the atmosphere in the hall was dramatically altered with the playing of uplifting songs about overcoming crises. This effort aimed to rally the remaining activists, who then engaged in a forced display of unity and determination.
Ben-Gvir eventually took the stage to a seemingly jubilant reception, handing out high-fives and projecting an image of resolve. However, this performance was confined to the public eye. Those privy to internal discussions understood the gravity of the situation, with the overall bloc's mandate count casting a long shadow. The media blackout remained in effect, underscoring the ongoing uncertainty and concern within the party.
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