When former Likud minister Moshe Kahlon announced his planned entry into the election race he stated that he would not be taking people serving in Knesset but he would insist on new blood, seeking to bring about change. He feels that using defectors from the various parties would simply bring more of the same under a different umbrella.

Kahlon’s “Kulanu” party has announced the first name of a person who will be on the Knesset ticket, former Israeli Ambassador to the Washington Dr. Michael Oren.

Oren explained at the press conference announcing his candidacy that Israel must navigate between the dangers and threats towards achieving her goal – the strong Jewish democratic nation appreciated nation in the world.

Kahlon’s main emphasis in the race is reducing the cost of living. He realizes that this is the number one issue on the minds of voters and promises to bring radical change for the better. To date he has refused to align with any other party, despite polls showing if he runs with Yesh Atid he can earn over 20 seats. Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid has applied considerable pressure but Kahlon appears adamant in going it alone.

Kahlon, who is not a novice to the political arena, is keeping all avenues open by not aligning with anyone, permitting him to align with any party following elections.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)