Deputy Minister Almog Cohen Secures Top 14 Spot in Likud Primaries

Deputy Minister Almog Cohen has successfully secured a position within the top ten candidates in the Likud party primaries and is expected to be placed 14th on the party list after reserved slots are accounted for. Cohen announced his candidacy only last week following a reduction in the required membership period to run. Previously elected to the Knesset with Otzma Yehudit under Itamar Ben-Gvir, Cohen's relationship with the party soured after he supported Prime Minister Netanyahu by voting for the budget against his faction's stance. Although Cohen anticipated a reserved spot in Likud due to his closeness to Netanyahu, this did not materialize, prompting him to launch a late campaign after most deals were finalized. Despite this, he emerged as a significant winner, with senior Likud officials calling him "the big winner," as many established Knesset members and ministers ranked lower in the list.

Cohen expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by Likud members, emphasizing his commitment to serve them with humility and dedication. He thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for his confidence and acknowledged the support of the IDF and security forces that enable Israel's democracy. Cohen described the campaign as brief and low-budget but impactful, and he was overwhelmed by the support from patriotic Likud voters. His success marks a notable political comeback within the party ahead of the upcoming elections.