Likud politicians ready to battle for shrinking number of spots in Monday primary

Approximately 140,000 members of the Likud party are heading to the polls on Monday to select their electoral slate for the upcoming general election. This primary, held under tight conditions, could significantly influence the character of the next Israeli government should the pro-Netanyahu bloc prevail. With a reduction in open spots and an increase in reserved slots for the Prime Minister, competition between incumbent MKs and newcomers for viable parliamentary seats has intensified. Following a recent decision by the Likud Central Committee, Netanyahu now controls eight of the top 29 spots, granting him unprecedented influence over the final list. Internal critics, including MK David Bitan, have argued this move aims to sideline independent lawmakers in favor of loyalists. Conversely, candidates like Tally Gotliv have defended the process as democratic. Polls suggest Likud may secure 22-24 seats in the October 27 election, down from its current 32. Beyond internal tensions, some party members, such as Central Committee member Gidon Ariel, have criticized the late announcement of the primary date, arguing it left insufficient time for new candidates to introduce themselves to the electorate.