Netanyahu pushes to replace Likud primaries with appointments committee

Netanyahu's effort to have Likud's candidate list chosen by an appointments committee rather than primaries is gaining momentum. The plan involves a committee of mayors and public figures determining the list order up to position 32, with Netanyahu proposing seven reserved spots. Netanyahu argued in a lengthy discussion that the 12 million shekel cost of primaries effectively funds opposition campaigns and leads to radicalization and problematic candidates. The move is driven by seven Likud resignations during the current term and serious issues revealed in the State Comptroller's report about illegal mass membership drives. The plan requires simple majority approval in the Constitution Committee, Secretariat, and Party Conference.