Deputy Minister Almog Cohen to File Complaint Over Missing Name in Likud Primary Ballots

Deputy Minister Almog Cohen announced plans to file a complaint after reports emerged that his name was missing from the voting lists at Likud party primary polling stations. Speaking in an interview with Boaz Golan on "Open Studio" on Monday, Cohen said that voters have contacted him saying they could not find his name on the ballots. He described the omission as "insanity" and promised to address the issue promptly.

Cohen, who is actively campaigning across the country despite lacking a formal campaign infrastructure, expressed optimism about his chances of securing a realistic spot on the party list. He acknowledged that he has no campaign stickers or signs but relies on grassroots support, hoping to serve the public faithfully if elected. Cohen urged Likud members to consider their choice carefully, emphasizing that their vote determines the party's direction and leadership style.

The controversy comes shortly after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially accepted Cohen into the Likud party and granted him a waiver from the usual membership waiting period, enabling him to run in the 2026 primaries. During the live broadcast, host Boaz Golan received multiple messages from voters still unable to locate Cohen's name on the ballots, highlighting ongoing concerns about the primary process.

Cohen's comments underscore tensions within the Likud primaries and raise questions about ballot management as the party prepares for the upcoming elections.