Channel 12 and Midgam Part Ways Over Election Poll Errors

Midgam, a polling company, is suspending its political cooperation with Channel 12 News following criticism of its election polls. Manu Geva, head of Midgam, announced the decision, stating that the company will cease conducting polls specifically related to politics. Geva explained that while the company also operates in commercial and social sectors, political polling carries significant risks that have now materialized.

Geva acknowledged the emotional toll the recent election results took on the company, admitting he takes the criticism to heart. However, he stressed the need to separate emotional responses from the correct business decisions for Midgam. He noted that their historical model had been successful and questioned the need for changes, but also indicated a willingness to adapt, recognizing the highly emotional nature of the recent election.

Channel 12 News responded to Midgam's decision by thanking Geva and his company for years of professional and friendly collaboration. They expressed respect for Geva's choice to take a break from political polling on television and voiced confidence in future collaborations.

Pollster Dr. Lazar admitted that pollsters, including his own firm, made significant errors in predicting the election outcome. He explained that while events between the final poll and election day could have had an impact, the primary issue was a miscalculation. Lazar stated that his firm had underestimated the strength of Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and coalition, a situation he compared to the 2015 elections where Netanyahu also managed to increase his bloc's power on election day. A full assessment will be made after the final results are available.