Likud Primaries Conclude With Surprising Winners and Notable Losses Ahead of Next Knesset

The Likud party primaries concluded with approximately 80,000 members voting, shaping the party's candidate list for the upcoming Knesset elections. Energy Minister Eli Cohen secured the top spot on the national list, just after party leader and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflecting his extensive grassroots work within the party. Legal reform advocates Amir Ohana, Speaker of the Knesset, and Justice Minister Yariv Levin followed closely in second and third places, reinforcing their influence in the reform camp.

Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz made a significant leap to fifth place nationally and tenth on the final list, credited to his leadership on social legislation and parliamentary presence. Newcomer Almog Cohen, who recently joined Likud from Otzma Yehudit, surprised by entering the top ten on the national list. Despite internal challenges, veteran politicians David Bitan and Tali Gottlieb secured realistic spots on the list, ensuring their return to the Knesset.

On the losing side, several prominent ministers and MKs failed to reach realistic entry positions. Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter, Environment Minister Idit Silman, and Social Equality Minister May Golan were among those ousted. Economy Minister Nir Barkat ranked 24th, with political speculation suggesting he might be pushed further down. Other notable MKs excluded include Ze'ev Elkin, Nissim Vaturi, Hanoch Milvitsky, and others.

Reactions varied: Justice Minister Yariv Levin framed his high placement as a clear mandate to advance judicial reforms, stating, "A vast public demands justice and the completion of the reform." Outgoing MK Hanoch Milvitsky accepted his loss with composure, emphasizing democratic principles. Meanwhile, Tali Gottlieb, despite securing a seat, criticized Netanyahu's inner circle for attempts to undermine her campaign, highlighting the strong support she received from right-wing Likud voters.

The primary results solidify the party's commitment to judicial reform and reshape its parliamentary lineup ahead of the next elections, with several new faces rising and established figures falling out.