Netanyahu Reportedly Favors Jacob Bardugo for Communications Minister

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly named former Channel 14 commentator Jacob Bardugo on two occasions as his preferred communications minister if Likud forms the next government. The report says one remark came near the party's candidate-list deadline, while Netanyahu repeated the preference several days later. Netanyahu reportedly wants an effective minister able to advance major reforms and reshape Israel's media market. Likud responded that Netanyahu is not currently dealing with appointments or distributing portfolios, saying his focus is winning the election and preventing an Eisenkot-led government.