Eli Cohen Tops Likud Primary as Netanyahu Reserved Slots Spark Debate

Energy Minister Eli Cohen took first place in the Likud party primary after more than 80 percent of the vote was counted. He was followed by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Transportation Minister Miri Regev, and coalition whip Ofir Katz. The results come as opinion polls suggest the Likud party may win between 22 and 24 mandates in the upcoming October election, a significant drop from the 32 seats it currently holds. This projected decline means several current ministers, including Ze’ev Elkin, Gila Gamliel, May Golan, Idit Silman, and Avi Dichter, are likely to lose their seats if the results hold.

Approximately 53.5 percent of the party's 140,000 members cast ballots, which is a decrease from the 58 percent turnout recorded in 2022. The primary process was marked by a controversy over reserved slots. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was granted the ability to handpick eight candidates in the top 30 spots, in addition to his own slot at the top of the list. He has already tapped Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Likud Central Committee chair Haim Katz, and Oren Dobronsky for three of these positions.

Outlets with different political leans framed the reserved slots and the primary process differently. A center lean source reported that the reserved slots were likely motivated by Netanyahu's desire to settle scores with internal critics and to avoid elevating candidates who are popular with the base but unappealing to moderate voters. A center right lean source framed the event as a celebration of democracy and quoted ministers who argued that the reserved slots are necessary for the prime minister to coordinate alliances and lead the party to victory. A left lean source focused on the low voter turnout and the risk to current lawmakers.