Israel Election 2026: What does Yair Golan’s Democrats party stand for?

The Democrats, a new political party formed in 2024 through the merger of the Labor and Meretz parties, is one of the main contenders in Israel's 2026 election. Led by former IDF deputy chief of staff Yair Golan, the party sits on the left of the political spectrum and aims to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government.

Golan's platform emphasizes fundamental change to Israel's political system, focusing on democracy, the rule of law, and government accountability. He has pledged to prevent politicians under criminal indictment from serving as prime minister or ministers, and has supported the judiciary's role in checking government power. The party also opposes Netanyahu's military approach, pushing for diplomatic solutions and opposing West Bank settlement expansion.

The Democrats' primary includes 19 women, nine candidates under 45, eight former Knesset members, four from the Arab community, three from the Druze community, and two from the LGBT community. The party's election slate reflects its diverse membership, with leaders involved in protest movements and public activism, former IDF officers, and individuals from civil service backgrounds.