Agenda Profile: Henn Põlluaas
First Reading of the Draft Act amending the Riigikogu Election Act, the Local Government Council Election Act, and the European Parliament Election Act (292 SE)
2024-03-20
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political focus is centered on strong opposition to e-elections, citing 40% public distrust and the precedent set by Finland. The government’s economic policy is also fiercely criticized, labeled as "tax terror," and highlighting the public outcry generated by the proposed car tax. These positions are strongly value- and results-based, concentrating on democratic trust and the government's perceived disregard for the public.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding election management and public trust, using specific data (40% distrust, 85,000 additional votes) and international comparisons (Finland, Novaya Gazeta). A particular emphasis is placed on the lack of reliability of e-voting, which is directly tied to the legitimacy of the government. The speaker is also familiar with tax policy and the public reaction to it.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative and accusatory, employing strong emotional terms such as "tax terror" and "the people's indignation." Dramatic parallels (Russian elections) and rhetorical questions are used to cast doubt on the government’s actions and priorities. The tone is critical and urgent, emphasizing the government’s disregard for public opinion.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data shows two speeches on the same day during the first reading of the Draft Act amending the Riigikogu Election Act (Bill 292 SE). There is no other data available regarding the frequency of speeches, meetings, or public appearances.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the ruling coalition and the Reform Party, who are accused of disregarding public trust and benefiting from suspicious election results. The criticism is intense, labeling the government's tax policy as "tax terror" and calling into question the government's priorities (defending e-elections versus addressing tax outrage).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no information regarding cooperation or willingness to compromise; the speaker focuses on challenging the actions of the rapporteur and the government, and posing critical questions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national issues (e-voting, tax policy) and international comparisons (Russia, Finland) to support their arguments regarding the reliability of the elections. There is no specific regional or local focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is vehemently opposed to raising taxes, criticizing the government's policy as "tax terror" and highlighting the widespread public outrage over the introduction of the car tax. This indicates a desire to reduce the tax burden and opposition to new taxes.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the draft bill amending election laws (292 SE). The speaker is a strong proponent of either abolishing or reforming e-voting. The objective is to resolve the issue of distrust among 40% of the population and ensure the credibility of the elections.
2 Speeches Analyzed