Numbers are important. But only up to a point and one must never abandon one's principles for the sake of ephemeral popularity. This state can't have two socialist parties. If we agree with the Democrats on everything but how to implement THEIR agenda, we might as well stay home.
(No more Olmert! No more Kadima! No more Oslo! )
The objective is to be able to insert one's approach to solving problems into "the system". Voluntarily relegating yourself to a permanent loser position, where you have ZERO influence does NOT advance your "principles".