Kadima had left Sharon's original governing coalition. In the past, Shinui had also called itself a "centrist" party because it rejected both Labor's socialism (its economic policies were free-market) and the Likud's opposition to a Palestinian state (however, from an international standpoint, Shinui may have actually been on the centre-right). Justice Minister Tzipi Livni reportedly told Israel Army Radio that Kadima intended to help foster the desire for a separate Palestinian state, a move applauded by leftist Yossi Beilin. Sharon was one of the prime architects pushing for the construction of the Israeli West Bank barrier that has been criticized by
2012 Kadima leadership election countered that Livni was weak and he would be better able to oppose Moshe Feiglin's influence in Knesset. Dichter said that Livni has harmed the party and a new leader is needed. An 18 January Maagar poll supported Livni's claim with Kadima winning four more seats under Livni than Mofaz. However, neither could take the party to victory. Former prime minister and Kadima leader Ehud Olmert declined to endorse any candidate. At a press conference, Mofaz said his first priority will be to ensure there is "one law for everyone". He lowered his criticism of his opponent and said he