In marathon meetings held between representatives of Vishnitz and Shlomei Emunim on Monday, 12 Tishrei 5774, the chassidus decided to back Sruly Porush’s bid in the local mayoral race. The meetings were held in Bnei Brak.

It should be pointed out that Vishnitz was also negotiating with Ariel Krisfel, the Shas candidate but at the end, the decision was to back Porush. It is interesting that a deal was struck for in recent months, tensions between the Vishnitz faction of Yahadut Hatorah was at odds with the Shlomei Emunim faction (Porush).

It now appears that Porush will be backed by Vishnitz, Degel Hatorah, and the dati leumi community, leaving Shas with an uphill battle in the city.

It was recently reported that Maran HaGaon HaRav Ovadia Yosef Shlita sent a stern warning to MK Meir Porush, Sruly Porush’s father that if he does not pull his son out of the race the gadol hador will not forgive his betrayal. The gadol hador said Elad is traditionally Shas’ turf and trying to take control is not acceptable at this time.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)