Religious Zionism Party Targets Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi for Knesset List After Primaries

Following the Religious Zionism party primaries held on Sunday, party leaders are working to balance the candidate list ahead of the upcoming elections. The primaries resulted in a list heavily dominated by settlers from Judea and Samaria, which party officials believe does not fully represent the broader Religious Zionism stream.

Alon Davidi, the mayor of Sderot, has emerged as the primary target for inclusion to broaden the party's appeal beyond its current base. Sources indicate that party chairman Bezalel Smotrich plans to invest significant efforts in the coming weeks to persuade Davidi to join the list. If successful, Davidi is expected to be placed in a high-ranking position, enhancing both the party's electoral strength and public image.

Smotrich is reportedly willing to make adjustments to the list, including considering an additional reserved slot if necessary, to accommodate Davidi. Although no final decision has been made yet, the move is considered a top priority following the primaries.

The primaries saw participation from 170 of 173 eligible voters, with Orit Strook, the Minister of Settlement and National Missions, securing first place, followed by Simcha Rothman and Tzvi Sukkot. Other notable candidates include Ohad Tal, Omas Rahamim, Michal Waldiger, Shmuel Sasson, Tzvika Wishingrad, and Natan Zaubman. The party also expects the reserved slot of Tzvika Mor to be confirmed. Smotrich expressed confidence that the finalized list, including Davidi and other new additions, will lead the party to victory in the upcoming elections.