Otzma Yehudit Offers Knesset Advisory Role to Right-Wing Activist
Right-wing activist Mordechai David, known for controversial protests, has received a parliamentary advisor offer from Otzma Yehudit, led by Itamar Ben Gvir, marking a potential shift from street activism to official Knesset work.
Right-wing activist Mordechai David, who has emerged in recent months as a prominent and controversial figure in right-wing protests, has received an offer from the Otzma Yehudit party to serve as a parliamentary advisor in the Knesset. The offer follows David's joining of the party's youth headquarters during the recent election campaign, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. If he accepts, David may transition from street and social media political activism to a professional role within the Knesset.
Last August, reports emerged that David was recruited for Otzma Yehudit's election campaign in a paid role at the youth headquarters, alongside right-wing activists Viktor Shriki and Ziv Baranes. David later announced in a joint video with Ben Gvir that he was joining the youth headquarters alongside Shriki, expressing support for the minister's activities. In that same video, Ben Gvir told the two: "Together, you are a winning force."
From the Streets to the Knesset?
David gained notoriety primarily due to his activities against left-wing protesters and public figures. Among other incidents, he filmed himself blocking the vehicles of former Prime Minister Ehud Barak and retired Supreme Court President Aharon Barak. Following these events, he was investigated by police last February on suspicion of offenses including breach of public order, trespassing, and assault, and restrictions were placed on his contact with the two.
Last October, his name was also linked to a clash that developed at the Left Bank club in Tel Aviv, which served as an election headquarters for the Joint List. David and about ten activists identified with Otzma Yehudit arrived at the location during an event held by the "Mesarvot" network. Attendees claimed violence was used against them, though police stated that upon officers' arrival no assault was identified and that left-wing activists announced they would file a complaint.
From Activist to Advisor
The connection between David and the Otzma Yehudit chairman is not new. Last month, Ben Gvir even referred to him in an interview, predicting that he could serve as a government minister in the future. Now, the offer for a parliamentary advisor position may mark another step in his integration into the political establishment.
However, at this stage it remains unclear which Knesset member the position is intended for, what employment terms were offered to David, and whether he intends to accept the offer. Should it be accepted, it would mark a transition from campaign political activism to an ongoing parliamentary role.
