Tali Gottlieb Accuses Likud Primaries of Political Sabotage Against Her

Knesset member Tali Gottlieb has accused opponents in the Likud party primaries of attempting to politically eliminate her by distributing pre-filled ballots that omit her name. These ballots, circulated among party members eligible to vote, are intended to guide their choices and have significant influence in the tightly contested race, where organized voter blocs and recommended lists play a crucial role. The exclusion of Gottlieb's name from some ballots could directly affect not only her chances but also those of other candidates listed on the same ballot, as votes cast on such ballots would be invalidated.

The extent of the distribution of these altered ballots remains unclear. However, an investigation in the city of Netivot found a ballot that correctly included Gottlieb's name. Likud party leadership has acknowledged the issue and believes that addressing it will stop the practice that Gottlieb has highlighted. The incident underscores the intense competition and internal conflicts within the Likud primaries ahead of the upcoming elections.