Likud Primaries Begin With Over 120 Candidates Competing for Limited Knesset Seats

Approximately 140,000 Likud party members are set to vote in primaries on August 17 to determine the party's candidate list for the upcoming Knesset elections. More than 120 candidates are vying for a realistic spot on the list, but with a limited number of available seats, most will be excluded. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reserved eight guaranteed spots on the list and, following Defense Minister Israel Katz's withdrawal, one additional seat is freed from the competition, further reducing the number of contested positions.

Currently, Likud holds 32 seats in the Knesset, but recent polls suggest this could drop to between 22 and 24 seats in the next election. According to a recent survey by Manu Geva, Likud is projected to win 22 seats, meaning only 14 out of 41 incumbent Knesset members and ministers are expected to secure realistic positions on the list. Three incumbents have already decided not to run, leaving 38 candidates competing for these 14 spots.

The primaries have become highly competitive, with candidates seeking any advantage, including social media promotion featuring Netanyahu. However, Netanyahu has maintained near-complete silence on the list formation, stating, "I am not intervening in the national list." Even close associates like Miri Regev have struggled to gain his public endorsement. Netanyahu urged party members to vote wisely, emphasizing his trust in their judgment and wishing all candidates success.

This internal contest marks a critical moment for Likud as it prepares for a potentially reduced presence in the next Knesset, with the primaries shaping the party's parliamentary representation and future leadership.