For the first time in the history of Zionist Congress elections in the United States, the religious and conservative right-wing bloc has achieved a clear majority. This comes against the backdrop of unprecedented voter turnout: 230,257 ballots were cast—more than double the number in the previous election.
Beyond the numbers, this marks a historic shift in the representation of American Jewry within Zionist institutions.
Who’s Really on Top?
The Reform Movement maintained its lead in total votes, receiving 47,000 ballots. However, the Likud-affiliated “Am Yisrael Chai” slate came in second with 31,765 votes, followed by the ultra-Orthodox Zionist “Eretz HaKodesh” with 27,893. The Conservative Movement also gained nearly 28,000 votes, while the Religious Zionist “Mizrachi” slate earned around 27,000.
It appears that the fragmentation among liberal streams, in contrast to the unity of the right-wing and religious bloc, resulted in the latter securing a clear majority among Congress delegates—for the first time ever.
“A Historic Moment for American Jewry”
Yaakov Hagoel, Chairman of the World Zionist Organization and a member of Likud, described the outcome as “a historic milestone”:
“The right-wing and conservative bloc has achieved a decisive majority. This is a moment when American Jewry voiced its support for proud Zionism, for tradition, and for unity. October 7 reminded us of the fragility of Jewish existence and the need for unifying leadership.”
Herbert Block, Executive Director of the American Zionist Movement (AZM), also underscored the significance of the results:
“This year’s vote proves that Zionism in the United States is not only alive—it’s stronger than ever.”
Solidarity with Israel and a New Discourse
The announcement of the results came amid growing tensions in the United States following antisemitic attacks in Colorado and Washington, D.C. This week, Jewish Agency Chairman Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog visited Pittsburgh to strengthen the local community and express gratitude for its outpouring of support for Israel after Hamas’s attack in October.
“From a community that endured one of the deadliest antisemitic attacks in U.S. history, we send a message that our strength and mutual responsibility are the answer to antisemitism and terror,” said Almog.
