Agenda Profile: Varro Vooglaid
Third Reading of the Bill Amending the Land Tax Act (437 SE)
2024-06-19
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, extra plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance centers on strong opposition to the draft amendment of the Land Tax Act, particularly concerning the taxation of residential land. This position is strongly value-driven, emphasizing the government's violation of the principles of the inviolability of private property and the sanctity of the home. The speaker believes that the government's program as a whole is leading the country in the wrong direction, making it difficult for people to maintain love and respect for the state.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The expertise is primarily evident in the general criticism of tax policy, mentioning the rise of excise duties, social tax, and new taxes (such as the car tax). In their argumentation, the speaker relies on the historical and moral-ethical significance of private property, referencing the system of slavery and the Soviet era. No specific economic data or technical terminology is presented; the focus remains on the political narrative.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is combative, emotional, and forceful, employing strong moral and historical appeals to emphasize the sanctity of home and private property. The speaker uses sharp language, accusing the government of desecrating sacred values (marriage, family, human life, home). The appeal is directed more toward values and emotions than logical data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the legislative process (the third reading of the draft bill) and refers to recent communication with colleagues. He also mentions direct feedback from farmers who expressed concern about the impact of the land tax increase on their businesses.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main confrontation is directed at the Government of the Republic and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who are accused of deceiving voters regarding tax hikes before the elections. The criticism is intense, political, and value-based, accusing the government of going after people's homes. Compromise in supporting the draft bill is completely ruled out.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes cooperation within his parliamentary group (EKRE), speaking firmly on behalf of the entire faction. He also references other opposition politicians (Jaak Valge, Henn Põlluaas, Kalle Grünthal, Jaanus Karilaid) who are expected not to support the draft bill, demonstrating cross-factional opposition.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is directed toward national tax policy and its impact on citizens facing economic hardship. Particular emphasis is placed on the concerns of the agricultural sector (farmers), who may be forced to cease operations due to the rise in land tax.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly opposed to tax increases, stressing that the government's actions—raising excise duties, introducing new taxes, and increasing virtually all existing taxes—make it significantly harder for people to make ends meet. They advocate for minimal taxation of private property, especially concerning primary residences, and express concern regarding the sustainability of entrepreneurship, particularly in agriculture.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The treatment of social issues is strongly moralistic and conservative, accusing the government of desecrating sacred values. Mention is made of the violation of the sanctity of marriage and family, as well as the disregard for the sanctity of human life (referencing the funding of the killing of thousands of children before birth). The inviolability of private property has been elevated to an equivalent sacred social value.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on opposing the Draft Act on Amendments to the Land Tax Act (Bill 437 SE), which concerns the abolition of the tax exemption for land under one's residence. The speaker is acting as a vocal opponent, attempting to prevent the bill from being adopted.
1 Speeches Analyzed