Arab voters weigh participation ahead of Israel election

Arab citizens of Israel are weighing whether to vote or abstain in the October 27 parliamentary election, as campaigners seek higher turnout and voters debate whether participation can secure political influence or improve their lives. Interviews in Arab communities reveal sharply different calculations. Some residents say voting is a chance to press for change, oppose policies they view as harmful and ensure their concerns are heard. Others say years of elections have brought little improvement and question whether casting a ballot can alter their circumstances. The competing views make the expected participation of Arab voters, who account for roughly one-fifth of Israel’s population, a significant factor in a closely contested race. The last election, in 2022, drew about 53% to 54% turnout among Arab citizens, according to figures cited in reports. Arab party leaders and campaigners say they want turnout to reach 70% or more. Estimates of likely participation vary: one campaign operative cited a survey near 62%, while other assessments put expected turnout above 60%. Those are projections, not election results. Two Arab political lists, the Joint List and the United Arab...