Energy Minister Eli Cohen Tops Likud Primaries with Unexpected Vote Surge

Energy Minister Eli Cohen secured first place in the recent Likud primaries with a surprising 46,224 votes, surpassing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, who received 42,975 votes. Cohen, previously second in the last primaries, is known for his extensive presence at Likud events, from small gatherings to major meetings, which helped him build a broad support network within the party. His strategy combined mobilizing organized branch voters and appealing to unaffiliated members, a key factor in his victory.

Cohen's political rise began with support from the Holon branch, gradually expanding his influence by cultivating additional branches and support groups. Throughout his term, he maintained high visibility through frequent media appearances, reaching free members whose votes are crucial for top list positions. His vote count nearly equals the combined votes of two other incumbent ministers from the central list.

In contrast, candidates relying solely on either organized members or free members fared worse. Eti Atiya, backed by Haim Katz and dependent on organized voters, received 21,000 votes but did not secure a realistic spot. Tali Gottlieb, favored by Prime Minister Netanyahu but relying only on free members, finished 12th, ultimately placed 20th after reserved slots were applied. This underscores the necessity of a mixed support base to reach the top ranks.

Cohen is regarded as a moderate figure within the cabinet, known for advancing the electricity market reform to increase competition and reduce consumer costs without courting controversy. Following the primaries, Netanyahu expressed satisfaction with the results, highlighting the list's renewal and new leadership integration. The top ten candidates without reserved slots include Cohen, Ohana, Yariv Levin, Miri Regev, Miki Zohar, Yoav Kisch, Almog Cohen, Amichai Shikli, Dudi Amsalem, and Ofir Katz.

Notably, several senior figures were pushed down or out of realistic positions, including Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter (27th), Environmental Protection Minister Tamar Zandberg (25th), and Social Equality Minister May Golan (23rd). Despite promises of female representation, Golan will not be among the top 39 candidates. There is speculation she might join Otzma Yehudit with Itamar Ben-Gvir, with whom she has maintained a cooperative relationship. Finance Minister Zeev Elkin, returning with Gideon Sa'ar, ranked 17th, below Nir Barkat, the last candidate in a currently realistic spot.

Netanyahu's statement emphasized the list's strength and readiness to lead Likud to a broad national government victory, though not all elected candidates are guaranteed Knesset seats due to reserved slots and coalition arrangements.