Nearly 40 Likud MKs Compete for 15 Seats in Contentious Party Primaries

After weeks of delays, internal disputes, and changes to the voting system, Likud party members are voting today (Monday) in the party primaries. Nearly 40 incumbent Knesset members and ministers are competing for about 15 realistic spots on the party list, creating an unprecedented internal battle within Likud. This intense competition is fueled by unfavorable polls and numerous secured slots promised by Prime Minister and party leader Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu has a list of candidates he aims to block from high positions, including Tali Gottlieb, David Bitan, and Nir Barkat. The most closely watched contests include the race for the top spot, where Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana is the frontrunner, though strong challengers like MK Tali Gottlieb and ministers Yariv Levin and Eli Cohen are also competing. Another key battle is for the highest-ranking woman on the list. Netanyahu prefers that Miri Regev retain this position, but the competition is tight among female ministers including Ayelet Shaked, Idit Silman, Gila Gamliel, and Eti Atiya, who is backed by influential minister Haim Katz.

The influence of political deals will become clearer as voting progresses. High voter turnout and increased vote shares weaken the power of political deals, benefiting less organized candidates like Minister Amichai Shikli and MK Moshe Saada. Conversely, low turnout would favor allies of Haim Katz and David Bitan. A high placement for Bitan would signal a problem for Netanyahu amid their ongoing conflicts.