Netanyahu Reshapes Likud Primaries, Undermining Traditional Member Influence

The Likud party, a dominant force in Israeli politics for decades, is undergoing a significant transformation in its candidate selection process ahead of upcoming elections. Traditionally, candidates secured Knesset seats through competitive primaries within regional districts, relying on grassroots support from tens of thousands of party members who paid to vote. This system fostered a democratic, member-driven culture where local activists and officials received considerable attention from ministers and lawmakers, who attended numerous community events to secure votes.

However, recent decisions by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have disrupted this longstanding model. Netanyahu has allocated eight secured slots on the party list up to the 33rd position, pushing candidates from regional districts and special sectors, including the "new woman" slot, far down the list, beyond realistic chances of election given current polls projecting Likud around 21 seats. This move effectively sidelines many hopefuls who invested years building local support.

Notably, candidates like Hadar Mukhtar and Smadar Mors, who campaigned vigorously for the "new woman" slot, found their positions drastically lowered, ending their prospects. The shift reflects Netanyahu's intent to reshape the party by removing many incumbent lawmakers he views as vote-losers, consolidating control over the list composition.

Adding to the upheaval, Netanyahu hinted that if security conditions deteriorate, he may cancel the primaries altogether, allowing a special committee, likely packed with his allies, to determine the list. This announcement has unsettled many party officials and activists who rely on the primaries as their main avenue for political advancement. Despite internal dissent, most senior Likud figures remain silent, effectively ceding control to Netanyahu.

This development marks the end of an era where grassroots members held significant sway in Likud's candidate selection, signaling a more centralized and controlled approach under Netanyahu's leadership. The party now faces internal tensions as traditional power brokers and activists grapple with diminished influence and uncertain futures.