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The Druze vote in Israel: between ideology, socioeconomic status, kinship, and the Nation-State Basic Law
Abstract
This study investigates the determinants of Druze voting behavior in Israel, focusing on three theoretical frameworks: ideological, socioeconomic, and kinship theories. Analyzing electoral data from 2003 to 2022, the study examines trends in voter turnout and party preferences among the Druze community. Findings reveal a complex interplay of factors influencing Druze political choices. The ideological theory suggests that shifts in political ideology, particularly in response to legislative changes such as the 2018 Nation-State Basic Law, impact Druze voting patterns. Conversely, the socioeconomic theory posits that local economic conditions, education levels, and population demographics shape voting behavior. Furthermore, the kinship theory highlights the significance of community ties and descriptive representation in guiding political allegiances. Through statistical analysis, the study identifies kinship ties, specifically the inclusion of Druze candidates within political parties, as the most significant predictor of Druze voter support. This suggests that community representation holds considerable sway over Druze political choices, transcending the influence of ideology and socioeconomic factors. In conclusion, while all three theories offer valuable insights, the dominance of the kinship theory underscores the importance of identity and descriptive representation in shaping Druze electoral outcomes in Israel.
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Available on April 24, 2026
Date
2024-10-24
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Taylor and Francis
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Citation
Zeedan, R. (2024). “The Druze vote in Israel: between ideology, socioeconomic status, kinship, and the Nation-State Basic Law.” Democratization, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/13510347.2024.2414214