Likud Seeks Reversal of Election Day Data Ban That Could Reshape Voting Campaigns

The Likud party's legal advisor, Attorney Ilan Bombach, is expected to submit today a request for reconsideration to the chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Solberg, challenging a key ruling ahead of the current election cycle. The contested decision prohibits party observers and polling station committee members from sharing information on which citizens have already voted during election day. Likud, along with Shas and United Torah Judaism, argue that this ruling fundamentally alters election day operations and undermines a decade-long campaign tool.

For years, parties have used dedicated computer systems, primarily the 'Elector' platform, to receive near real-time updates on voter turnout among their supporters. Observers and committee members reported who had voted, enabling campaign teams to mobilize remaining supporters through calls, messages, or transportation arrangements. Likud previously credited this system with significantly boosting turnout among its base, a strategy also relied upon by Shas and United Torah Judaism.

Judge Solberg's ruling is based on a privacy protection argument, asserting that even reporting the fact that a person voted, without revealing their choice, constitutes personal data protected under privacy laws. The decision includes enforcement measures requiring polling secretaries to prevent such reporting, with violators facing legal consequences. This ruling overturns a longstanding practice in Israeli elections.

The legal challenge was initiated by Attorney Shahar Ben Meir, who claimed that using voter information lacks legal basis and infringes constitutional privacy rights. Supporting legal opinions emphasized that the right to privacy covers not only the vote itself but also the decision to vote and its timing. Consequently, parties are barred from maintaining real-time updated voter databases based on polling reports.

The political backlash, especially from Likud and the ultra-Orthodox parties, has been intense. They contend the ruling hampers legitimate political activity aimed at encouraging voter participation and could reduce turnout in their strongholds. United Torah Judaism labeled the decision a 'game changer,' and Likud is preparing a legal battle to overturn the ban before polls open.

If Judge Solberg rejects the reconsideration request, Likud may appeal to the Supreme Court, arguing the ruling impairs parties' ability to conduct election day operations and exercise democratic rights. Meanwhile, coalition members are exploring legislation to regulate such data use, and parties are seeking alternative legal methods to motivate voters without violating the committee's decision. Beyond technology, the dispute raises fundamental questions about parties' rights to collect and process voter data and the balance between campaign efficiency and privacy.

Solberg's ruling could redefine Israeli election rules, potentially forcing parties to overhaul their election day strategies and abandon a critical campaign tool used over the past decade.