Israel's electoral system is unlike almost anything in the democratic world - and understanding it changes how you follow the news. This morning program offers an accessible, substantive look at how Israel votes, how its governments are formed, and the long-running tensions in Israeli society that find expression in every election cycle.
Rooted in nearly eight decades of Israeli political history, the conversation will cover the mechanics of the Knesset and coalition-building, the unique pressures built into Israel's parliamentary system, and the ways U.S. and Israeli leaders have long tried to influence each other's political outcomes.
No prior knowledge of Israeli history or politics required - just bring your questions.
Light refreshments will be served.
Rooted in nearly eight decades of Israeli political history, the conversation will cover the mechanics of the Knesset and coalition-building, the unique pressures built into Israel's parliamentary system, and the ways U.S. and Israeli leaders have long tried to influence each other's political outcomes.
No prior knowledge of Israeli history or politics required - just bring your questions.
Light refreshments will be served.
Israeli Elections 101: Understanding How Israel Votes with Ken Stein
Tuesday | August 18, 2026
8:30–9:45 AM (Doors open at 8:00 AM)
The Dupree Conference and Education Center
8:30–9:45 AM (Doors open at 8:00 AM)
The Dupree Conference and Education Center
Ken Stein is the Founding President and Chief Content Officer of the Center for Israel Education, which he established in 2008 to educate broadly about Israel from its Jewish historical origins through contemporary Zionism. For nearly five decades, he taught Middle Eastern history, political science, and Israel studies at Emory University, where he founded four institutions, including the Institute for the Study of Modern Israel — the first permanent U.S. center established exclusively for the study of modern Israel.
The author of five books and dozens of scholarly articles, his expertise spans the origins of modern Israel, the Arab-Israeli negotiating process, Palestinian history, and U.S.-Israeli relations. His books include Heroic Diplomacy: Sadat, Kissinger, Carter, Begin and the Quest for Arab-Israeli Peace and The Land Question in Palestine, 1917–1939, both considered standard works in their fields.
