Tzipi Livni Kadima the most seats in the Knesset, parties to the right in Israel's political spectrum gained enough seats that a coalition government under Kadima leadership was unlikely. As a result, Israeli president Shimon Peres asked Netanyahu and Likud (which received one fewer seat than Kadima in the elections) to form a government; this was the first time in Israel's history that the party with the most seats was not asked to attempt to form a government. "The New York Times" commended Livni for "refusing the extortionist conditions set by Shas," and endorsed her candidacy for prime minister, saying Israelis would
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