Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Draft Act Amending the Motor Vehicle Tax Act (677 SE), second reading
2025-11-05
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is firmly opposed to the car tax and related legislative proposals (including Bill 677 SE), demanding the complete repeal of the tax. This stance is grounded in both values and results, accusing the government of destroying the economy and ironically labeling their proposed mitigation measures as "offering crumbs" after having stolen the bread. The speaker asserts that the tax has triggered an economic "tsunami."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the car tax's impact on the vehicle sales market and consumer behavior, citing the first quarter's drop and the rush to make purchases before the tax took effect. The broader effect of the tax on the price and logistics of essential goods (milk, meat, bread) is also highlighted, which impacts even those who do not own a car. This expertise is presented as strong convictions and assertions about economic relationships, rather than being supported by technical data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, ironic, and sarcastic, employing powerful metaphors such as "tax tsunami" and "squeezing the throat shut like this." The speaker introduces the opposing side's arguments only to ridicule them, labeling them as absurd "pearls" and frequently utilizing rhetorical questions. The appeals are predominantly emotional, centered on highlighting the severity of economic devastation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity demonstrates active participation in the legislative process, specifically by intervening on a specific date (2025-11-05) during the second reading of the draft amendment to the Motor Vehicle Tax Act. The speaker responds directly to the opposing side's arguments and presents their position during the parliamentary debate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary targets of the opposition are the tax proponents (citing the actions of Anneli and the government), who stand accused of destroying the economy and introducing mockingly ironic legislation. The criticism is intense and politically charged, dismissing all justifications for the tax (such as the alleged need for roads and police), arguing instead that these services were already in existence prior to the tax's implementation. No willingness to compromise is apparent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, concentrating on nationwide tax policy and its impact on the economy, as well as the availability of essential goods. There are no references to specific regions, industries, or local communities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective is fiercely opposed to taxes, viewing the proposed car tax as an economy-crippling "tsunami" that hampers recovery and destroys the market. The speaker stresses that taxation drives up the cost of essential goods, impacting even citizens who do not own a vehicle, and advocates for eliminating taxes to stimulate economic recovery.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Focusing on social issues, it is emphasized that the car tax also affects people who do not own a car, as it raises the price of essential goods (milk, meat, bread). This frames the tax policy as a broader social burden and a factor driving up the cost of living.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the draft act amending the Motor Vehicle Tax Act (677 SE) and demanding the abolition of the car tax. The speaker is actively taking the role of an opponent, criticizing the draft as an insufficient measure that fails to address the damage caused by the tax.
2 Speeches Analyzed