The battle for prime minister: Behind the messages and rhetoric of the leading candidates

Less than two weeks before the elections for the 26th Knesset, the leading candidates for prime minister continue to spread their messages. Expert Kove Shafran analyzes the rhetoric of Netanyahu, Eisenkot, and Bennett, and explains the 'leftist label', Eisenkot's challenge, and Bennett's youthful image.

Less than two weeks before the elections for the 26th Knesset, the leading candidates for prime minister continue to spread the messages that are supposed to tip the scales. Kove Shafran, author of the bestseller 'Secrets of Netanyahu', analyzes the candidates' rhetoric. According to him, Netanyahu makes a binary division between right and left, creates a 'leftist label' and connects the left to Arabs and to a threat, appealing to the threatened side of the public. Shafran claims that 'Mr. Security' has factually collapsed, but Netanyahu continues the same strategy and connects it to Eisenkot, who is 'weak' and 'submissive'. Regarding Eisenkot, Shafran explains that his appearance conveys something different from his complex message, and the question is whether affection and appreciation will prevail and give him votes. Bennett, according to Shafran, learned from Netanyahu and conveys physical appearance and sharp messages, while emphasizing youth and authenticity.