So Netanyahu upped the stakes. He promised that if Sharansky and his party endorse the Netanyahu candidacy they would get not only the Interior Ministry, but an even larger portfolio. You see, Barak had already promised Y'Israel B'Aliyah the Interior Ministry should he win. No doubt about it. This election will be determined by the immigrant vote.
Most former Soviets are extremely right of center politically and economically.
So are Shas supporters. The real question facing us is whether hatred or policy will determine that vote.