A popular four-term incumbent, Ron Huldai had never before faced a serious reelection challenge.

[1] Lacking name recognition when he announced his candidacy, Asaf Zamir's prospects were initially considered a longshot.

[1] As of July, a poll by Walla News showed Zamir in third place with only 11% of the vote, behind Huldai and prospective candidate Stav Shaffir.

[3] However, after Shaffir's made clear she would not be a candidate in the election, Zamir gradually climbed in support, posing a credible challenge to Huldai.

[1] Huldai and Zamir shared many similar political concerns, both advocating for lowering the price of housing, improvements to public transportation, and increasing the livability of the city.