MK May Golan Responds to Sharp Loss in Likud Primaries

Minister May Golan, who finished in an unrealistic 23rd place in the Likud primaries due to reserved slots, responded publicly on Tuesday to her significant defeat. She thanked the 19,214 Likud members who voted for her, emphasizing their ideological and ethical commitment. Golan criticized false smear campaigns and internal party efforts to exclude her, describing her as "too right-wing" and a threat to the future plans of the party leadership and Prime Minister Netanyahu. She promised to reveal more about these efforts in the future.

Golan explained that the large number of reserved slots for ministers and Knesset members drastically reduced the number of realistic places on the party list to only 17, pushing her 23rd place finish effectively down to 40th place. Despite this, she expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received and vowed to continue representing her supporters faithfully with "our voice of truth." Golan’s remarks came amid ongoing political tensions within Likud and questions about her future role.

Separately, Hili Tropper clarified that he will not join a Netanyahu-led government, highlighting internal party divisions following the primaries. Golan’s response underscores the challenges faced by right-wing women politicians within Likud and the complex dynamics shaping the party’s candidate list ahead of the next Knesset elections.