Einav Zangauker will not join "The Democrats" party list
The chairman of "The Democrats," Yair Golan, informed Einav Zangauker, mother of a former hostage and a prominent protest activist, that he has decided not to use his reserved spot option for her.
Einav Zangauker, mother of Matan Zangauker, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023, and released in October 2025, has become one of the most prominent and vocal figures in the public protest for the return of the hostages.
Due to her public involvement, her name was recently linked to the possibility of entering politics and joining the list of Yair Golan's party. However, this possibility has now been ruled out.
Party chairman Yair Golan informed Zangauker today (Thursday) that he had decided not to make use of the reservation right at his disposal on the party's list for the Knesset.
On behalf of Golan, it was stated that he expresses deep appreciation for Zangauker, who has become a symbol of a brave and determined struggle, but emphasized that the party is proud of the list chosen democratically by 113,000 party members:
"The list, chosen by our members, will lead the struggle to replace the government, rehabilitate Israel, and establish a state commission of inquiry."
The voting in "The Democrats" primaries ended with an impressive turnout of 86 percent, as more than 97,000 registered members voted online via a secure digital system, selecting from 51 candidates.
The structure of the list was determined in accordance with the party's bylaws:
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The first place was reserved in advance for chairman Yair Golan.
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Starting from the second place, the list was determined according to voting results while maintaining a gender "zipper" (alternating men and women).
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Places 6, 8, and 14 were reserved for the Meretz party.
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Places 12 and 13 were reserved for representatives of the rural sector and minorities.
