Thousands of Ultra-Orthodox Voters Shape Likud's Candidate List in Crucial Primaries

A significant political development is unfolding within Israel's ruling Likud party as thousands of ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) voters, particularly from various Hasidic sects, are set to influence the party's candidate list in the upcoming primaries. An estimated 7,000 Haredi members out of approximately 140,000 total Likud members are mobilizing their votes, leveraging the primary system where only a few thousand votes can secure a realistic spot on the list. This organized voting bloc wields considerable bargaining power with ministers and Knesset members.

The movement spans multiple Hasidic groups, each with distinct motivations. The Seret Vizhnitz community from Haifa leads with about 2,000 members aiming to indirectly influence city policies, especially regarding allocations for buildings and educational institutions. The Karlin sect, supported by activist Yossi Rozenboim who has led thousands of members since 2004, commands a significant voting force including affiliates from ZAKA and United Hatzalah emergency organizations. However, just before the primaries, a split occurred when thousands of members shifted allegiance to Moshe Porush, CEO of the newspaper Hamodia and a key figure in the Shlomei Emunim community, reportedly due to disagreements with Rozenboim, though his camp denies this.

The Gur Hasidic group is also increasing its membership under Elazar Gordon’s leadership, backed by influential figures like Moti Babchik, recognizing Likud's control over national budgets and policy agendas. Established representatives from Belz and the Kisei Rahamim yeshiva maintain close ties with government officials, with Rabbi Tzemach Mazuz endorsing a list that includes MK David Bitan.

Unlike purely ideological affiliations, the Haredi involvement in Likud is pragmatic, focusing on securing access and responsiveness from elected officials to address daily community needs such as funding for institutions, public transportation, travel assistance to Uman, and commitments to support Torah scholars. This active participation has already led to increased attentiveness from Knesset members to Haredi concerns, with some vocally advocating for the community.

Ultimately, while most Haredi voters are expected to support traditional Haredi parties in general elections, their organized presence within Likud ensures loyal representatives inside the ruling party, enhancing their influence on policy and resource allocation.