Former Blue and White MK Eitan Ginzburg Joins Naftali Bennett’s Yachdav Party Ahead of Elections

Eitan Ginzburg, former Minister of Communications and ex-member of the Blue and White party, has officially joined Naftali Bennett’s Yachdav party ahead of the 26th Knesset elections scheduled for October 27. Bennett announced the agreement on Wednesday, highlighting Ginzburg’s extensive public service experience, including roles as Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, Chair of the Knesset Committee, and Mayor of Ra'anana. Ginzburg, a retired lieutenant colonel and lawyer with degrees in law and political science, currently lives in Ra'anana with his partner and their twin children.

Ginzburg left Blue and White in May, citing frustration with the party’s diminishing ability to effect change and criticizing the government for undermining democratic institutions. His departure follows other notable defections from Blue and White, including MKs Matan Kahana, Orit Farkash-Hacohen, and founding member Hili Tropper, reflecting the party’s declining poll numbers.

Bennett praised Ginzburg as a dedicated and skilled public servant whose addition strengthens Yachdav’s mission to repair the country after four difficult years. Ginzburg expressed confidence in Bennett’s leadership, emphasizing the urgency for a government that will act decisively from day one to address the damage done and implement comprehensive reform plans.

In recent moves to bolster Yachdav’s electoral list, Bennett also announced the addition of four women: Bruria Naim, Esti Kovo, attorney Orly Harel, and Olesya Kantor, bringing the party’s female representation to 17. These new members hold significant roles within the party, including CEO, head of the economic delegation to China, head of the women’s division, and head of the Russian-speaking division, respectively.

The upcoming elections on October 27 will test Yachdav’s strengthened lineup as it seeks to present itself as a viable alternative focused on national repair and effective governance.