Minister Silvan Shalom (Likud) said tonight that he was sorry about the Labor Party's disintegration: "It's not good for our democracy. There must always be an alternative to the ruling party."
Voter turnout: 68.5% - the lowest in the history of the State. At least one television commentator said that this was a reaction to the "fact that these elections were forced upon the public."
The final election results will be publicized on Jan. 30. Sharon, after being appointed by President Moshe Katzav to form the next government, will have 28 days to do so, and will be able to request an extra 14 days if necessary.
Voter turnout: 68.5% - the lowest in the history of the State. At least one television commentator said that this was a reaction to the "fact that these elections were forced upon the public."
The final election results will be publicized on Jan. 30. Sharon, after being appointed by President Moshe Katzav to form the next government, will have 28 days to do so, and will be able to request an extra 14 days if necessary.