Politicians ignore the government's failure to address the cost of living

A new Tel Aviv University study reveals that a basket of products at discount chains has risen by 14.5% over the past four years, compared to 3% in the four years prior. The column argues that the government has not addressed the cost of living, ignored the strengthening shekel, and preferred sectoral benefits. Although the issue ranks first in polls, politicians focus on other topics.

A new Tel Aviv University study, which tracked the prices of 80 different products over eight years, reveals that the product basket at discount chains (Rami Levy, Victory, Yohananof, and Shufersal Deal) has risen by 14.5% in the last four years, compared to a rise of only 3% in the four years before that. This amounts to an increase of 143 NIS per basket versus 28 NIS. The column argues that the current government under Netanyahu has failed to address the cost of living, ignoring the strengthening shekel that could have led to price drops, and preferring bizarre programs like "the state basket" and sectoral tax benefits for Likud localities and settlements. Although the cost of living is the issue that most influences voting choices (25% of voters), politicians prefer to deal with other topics like responsibility for October 7 or conscription. The column notes that the Zalicha-Hendel party, which appeals to this sentiment, alternately passes the electoral threshold.