Am Israel Party Leader Dismisses Warnings, Cites Close Race

Ofer Winter, chairman of the Am Israel Party, addressed the high voter turnout in the 26th Knesset elections for the first time on Tuesday, following a situation assessment at the party's headquarters. Winter expressed confidence that his party, currently projected to win four seats, could increase its mandate to five or more, citing internal data indicating a close race where every vote counts.

The Am Israel Party had anticipated approximately 180,000 votes based on a 77% turnout scenario, and party officials are encouraged by the current voter engagement. "We have just completed a situation assessment at the party headquarters in light of the high voter turnout," Winter stated. "According to our analyses and the information we have, the race is tight and every vote will be decisive."

Winter also addressed criticism directed at his party, characterizing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine its support. "We need you, do not believe the orchestrated commotion against us, it was expected," he said, adding, "From our data, we continue to see a drift in our direction." He urged his supporters to bring their families and friends to vote for the Am Israel Party.

Concluding his remarks, Winter touched upon the potential political implications of the election results. "As we continue like this, we are on the right path, we will win and prevent a government of Abbas and Golan," he declared, referring to potential coalition partners.