As the chareidi MKs begin digesting what appears to be a reality of remaining in opposition in the new Knesset, the parties are beginning to pick up the pace in dealing with the upcoming Jerusalem mayoral race. In the last race, the lack of achdus in the chareidi camp led to the defeat of the chareidi candidate, Meir Porush, opening the door to the city’s mayor, Nir Barkat.

Degel Hatorah hasn’t yet announced its candidate, but it is known that former Mayor Uri Lupoliansky would like to return. It is unclear just how much support he will receive and how he would fare against Barkat. There is also talk of Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Yitzchak Pindrus seeking the candidacy, as well as Shas’ Aryeh Deri, who has been floating trial balloons towards evaluating the political atmosphere for him in the race.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)