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Voting isn't compulsory. Turnout is usually high. Years ago it approached 80%. Now it's about 65%. Post-election, consultations with Israel's president are held. The post is largely ceremonial.
To form a new government, support from at least 61 MKs are needed. No party gains a majority. Coalitions run Israel. Weeks or months may be required to form one.
Ahead of elections, candidates campaign on the stump, online, in closed venues, in small ones, in private homes, through social networks, and allotted broadcast time.
It's allocated based on Knesset membership. It's aired on a Central Elections Committee timetable.
Israel's media are prohibited from selling airtime. Israelis are sparred what Americans endure. Mass rallies aren't held. Few news media endorse candidates.
Debates are rarely held. In the last 35 years, they've been seven. The most memorable was in 1996. Netanyahu trailed in the polls. He embarrassed Prime Minister Shimon Peres. He was aging, tired, and showed it. In August he'll be 90.
Leading candidates try not to jeopardize their position by debating. Little public pressure urges them. Labor's Yacimovich invited Netanyahu to debate. Her call went unanswered.
Post-election, expect greater hardline extremism. Defining issues assure it.
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