It is possible that the elders were in Mahanaim where they served as Ish-bosheth’s advisors.1 However, the fact that 2 Samuel 3:19 mentions Abner speaking to the Benjamites in person suggests that he may have communicated with the elders in writing or by means of messengers.
17 And Abner conferred with the elders of Israel, saying, “For some time past you have been seeking David as king over you.