Likud Distributes Election Funding Forms Amid Uncertainty Over Primaries

In the midst of ongoing uncertainty and concerns among Likud MKs about the possible cancellation of the party's primaries due to security or legal issues, the acting CEO of Likud has distributed forms enabling candidates to withdraw their election campaign funds from the Knesset. Each candidate is entitled to approximately 370,000 shekels, with the deadline for fund withdrawal set for Tuesday, July 28. This move follows a prior decision by the party leadership to proceed with the primaries despite the risks of cancellation.

Candidates have already begun submitting requests to withdraw their funds. Some MKs had worried that if the primaries were canceled after they had spent money on campaigns, they would not be able to recover those expenses. However, Knesset officials clarified that candidates who withdraw from the race after receiving funds must return only the remaining amount, not the full sum initially withdrawn. Therefore, if the primaries do not take place, candidates can officially withdraw and have their spent funds effectively canceled.

This development comes ahead of the 2026 elections and aims to provide financial clarity and flexibility to Likud candidates amid the volatile political and security environment. The party continues to prepare for the primaries while navigating the potential legal and security challenges that could impact the electoral process.