Likud Faces Challenge From Yisrael Beiteinu in Battle for Russian-Speaking Voters

As Israel approaches its upcoming elections, a significant contest is unfolding over the support of nearly one million Russian-speaking immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Within the Likud party, there is growing concern that Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, plans to launch a targeted campaign to attract these voters away from Likud. This anxiety is heightened by the absence of a prominent Russian-speaking candidate in a realistic slot on the Likud list, following the departure of Yuli Edelstein.

The focal point of this internal struggle is Minister Ze'ev Elkin, a well-known figure among immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Likud is actively working to ensure Elkin secures a viable position in the party primaries, as his election is seen as crucial to maintaining the party's appeal to Russian-speaking voters. Additionally, after a recent Likud court ruling, three Russian-speaking candidates, Vitaly Haykin, Pavel Yelizerov, and Boris Aplitzuk, are set to compete for immigrant representation within the party.

Meanwhile, Yisrael Beiteinu is preparing a broad campaign accusing Likud of excluding Russian speakers, aiming to capitalize on any dissatisfaction. Elkin enjoys strong backing from influential local leaders within Likud, including Ronen Plot from Nof HaGalil, who is also from the immigrant community. The outcome of the Likud primaries will be pivotal in determining whether the party can retain its hold on this key demographic or if Lieberman's party will succeed in drawing these voters away.