Likud MK Eliyahu Revivo Withdraws from Primaries Citing Party's Election System Challenges

Likud Member of Knesset Eliyahu Revivo officially announced his withdrawal from the party's upcoming primaries after his name was omitted from the official candidate list. In a video statement, Revivo explained that the party's internal election system and reserved slots make it very difficult for district representatives like himself to secure realistic positions on the list. He emphasized that this challenge is especially significant for MKs elected through districts who have worked to maintain coalition stability during their term.

Revivo highlighted his parliamentary work, including submitting 107 bills and addressing issues such as splitting the Attorney General's role, conscription laws, and crime prevention. He described his efforts to bridge divides within the Knesset and maintain constructive discourse, stating that the Knesset should be a place where Israeli democracy thrives rather than a battleground.

Despite ending his tenure in the Knesset, Revivo affirmed his continued commitment to the Likud party, saying, "I am ending my path in the Knesset but not leaving the home. My public mission is not over; it is simply moving to the next chapter." Additionally, another Likud MK, Michel Buskila, was also absent from the official primary ballot, though political insiders expect he may receive a reserved slot on the national list.

Revivo's departure underscores internal challenges within Likud's candidate selection process ahead of the 2026 elections, reflecting tensions between district-based MKs and the party's centralized nomination mechanisms.