The Base Remains, the Vote Has Changed: What's Happening in the Right-Wing Stronghold? | Shir Li Golan
In Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda market, right-wing voters express criticism of the government and hope for a political upheaval. Ariel, a retired tour guide, will vote for Ra'am for the first time due to the connection between Abbas and Segalovich. Eliyahu compares October 7 to the Yom Kippur War. Aviv wants peace but doesn't trust Arabs. Hava criticizes the exemption for Haredim. Nahum analyzes polls and foresees a new government.
In Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda market, ahead of the 2026 Knesset elections, reporter Shir Li Golan spoke with voters from the right side of the political map. The market, usually bustling, appeared less cheerful and crowded, and stickers commemorating war victims adorn its stalls. Interviewees express criticism of the current government, mainly on the cost of living and handling of the October 7 events. Ariel, a retired tour guide, intends to vote for Ra'am for the first time in his life, following the connection between Mansour Abbas and Yoav Segalovich, which he sees as a foundation for national rehabilitation. Eliyahu, a former soldier in the Yom Kippur War, compares the negligence of October 7 to that of the Yom Kippur War and hopes for a political upheaval similar to that of 1977. Aviv declares a desire for peace but does not trust the other side, and Hava criticizes the draft exemption for Haredim and the benefits they receive. Nahum Gleybter, who studied medicine, analyzes polls from the three news channels and estimates that there will likely be a different government after the elections, unless a tectonic event occurs. The speakers express hope for a turnaround, but also fear of extreme voices.