Likud's May Golan Claims Targeted Smear Campaign for Being 'Too Right-Wing' After Primary Results

Likud Minister May Golan responded for the first time to her disappointing placement in the party's recent primaries, where she was pushed down to an unrealistic spot on the list despite receiving over 19,000 votes. Golan expressed gratitude to the 19,214 Likud members who voted for her freely and ideologically, emphasizing their support was not coerced or manipulated.

However, she launched a sharp attack on what she described as a "hit list" and "briefings on behalf of the Prime Minister" aimed at undermining her candidacy because she was "too right-wing" and outspoken. Golan accused these forces of not wanting a strong right-wing woman in the party and suggested they feared she might interfere with future government plans.

Golan also criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to allocate numerous reserved spots on the list, which she said reduced the number of realistic positions available, effectively pushing her from 23rd to 40th place. She argued this move limited opportunities for ministers, Knesset members, and new candidates alike.

Despite the setback, Golan vowed that the results would not change her political path. She reported receiving thousands of supportive messages since the results were announced and promised to continue representing her supporters with "our voice of truth." Speculation remains about whether Golan, previously affiliated with Otzma Yehudit, might join Itamar Ben-Gvir's party in the upcoming elections, but no confirmation has been made.

Summary: Likud Minister May Golan criticized a targeted campaign against her for being "too right-wing" after she was pushed down the party list in recent primaries, blaming internal forces and Netanyahu's reserved spots, while pledging to continue her political work amid speculation about her future party affiliation.

Points: - May Golan received 19,214 votes but was pushed to an unrealistic 40th spot on the Likud list. - She accused a "hit list" and briefings from Prime Minister Netanyahu's camp of undermining her. - Golan said she was targeted for being "too right-wing" and outspoken within Likud. - Netanyahu's reserved spots on the list reduced realistic placements, affecting Golan's ranking. - Despite the outcome, Golan vowed to continue representing her supporters with integrity. - Speculation exists about Golan possibly joining Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben-Gvir's party.

Topic: politics israel_relevant: true Entities: {"people":["May Golan","Benjamin Netanyahu","Itamar Ben-Gvir"],"organizations":["Likud","Otzma Yehudit"],"places":[]}