To diversify the list: Smotrich considers requesting an additional slot

Minister Bezalel Smotrich is considering requesting an additional slot in the top ten of the Religious Zionism list, in order to diversify the Ashkenazi and Haredi-leaning list. The party center approved two slots, but it is estimated he will request a third. The goal: to appeal to a religious-light and Mizrahi audience. This means another MK will be pushed to an unrealistic spot. Last week it was reported that one of the intended slots is Dr. Avishai Ben Haim, who may be number two.

Minister Bezalel Smotrich is considering requesting an additional slot in the top ten of the Religious Zionism list, as reported on the program "This Morning" on Kan News. The party center approved two slots for Smotrich, but assessments are that he will request a third to "diversify the list" which is Ashkenazi and Haredi-leaning. His goal is to appeal to a "religious-light" and Mizrahi audience, who are not represented in the current list. The implication: another MK from the list will be pushed down to unrealistic spots for entering the next Knesset, which is expected to see about five MKs from Religious Zionism according to a Kan News poll. Last week it was reported that one of the intended slots is Dr. Avishai Ben Haim from Channel 14, who may be number two. Ben Haim stated that this is "not on the agenda," and Religious Zionism said: "The list will be diverse and will continue the extensive work." Yesterday the primary results were published: Orit Strock in second place, Simcha Rothman third, Zvi Sukkot fourth, and Ohad Tal fifth. These are party members at risk of being moved to an unrealistic spot if the slots are implemented in the top five.