Perhaps the only voters who are somewhat content are supporters of Shas, the fervently religious party that attracts predominantly Sephardi voters. Some Shas supporters worry that if the Knesset calls new parliamentary elections, Shas would decline after winning 17 seats in the 120-seat Knesset in 1999 to become Israel's third biggest party. However, Shas voters can rise above the political melee somewhat, as they leave their decisions to spiritual leader Rabbi Ovadia Yosef. Maybe if Netanyahu is elected, it will be a bit better for religion. Aside from Shas supporters, however, few want to discuss religious-secular or social issues, the centerpieces of the May 1999 election Barak came to power.
Electoral reform is another story.
It seems increasingly unlikely that the Knesset will push through quick legislation to revert to the electoral system used until 1996. As frustrations with politics run high, however, some people feel that the only solution is to fix the system. Under the previous electoral system, Israelis voted with one ballot for a party list, and the leader of the party with the best chance of forming a government became premier. Now, Israelis vote separately for a prime minister and a party list. This allows voters to split their tickets, often choosing a party that in effect prevents the prime minister from wielding power effectively.