In past elections Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu enjoyed the backing of leaders of communities throughout Yehuda and Shomron, however it appears this will not be the case in the upcoming elections despite the fact most of these officials are aligned with Likud.

As the left-wing seems to be growing in the political arena and the announcement by MK Moshe Feiglin that he is dropping out of the Likud leadership race, Danny Danon is forging ahead, challenging the prime minister for the party’s top spot. Danon has an election ad in some Shabbos Torah sheets listing the names of Yesha officials who back his candidacy to become the head of Likud.

Among the prominent figures backing Danon are the following former ardent supporters of Netanyahu. Shomron Regional Council Head Gershon Mesika, Gush Etzion Regional Council Head David Pearl, Maale Adumim Mayor Benny Kashriel, Jordan Valley Regional Council Head David Elchiani, Beit Aryeh Council Head Avi Naim and Kedumim Mayor Chananel Dorani.

These endorsements are quite significant since these community leaders, mayors and regional council heads have significant influence among the members of the Central Committee who will vote in the primaries. However, most predict Netanyahu will maintain his party leadership position with a comfortable margin against Danon.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)