Session Profile: Henn Põlluaas
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
2024-03-20
Political Position
The political stance is fiercely oppositional, centered on the lack of trustworthiness of e-voting and the government's tax policy, which they label "tax terrorism." Their support for eliminating e-elections is justified by the 40% public distrust, and the government's activities are effectively disregarded. Furthermore, they consistently advocate for reducing the expense allowances granted to Riigikogu members. The policy is framed strongly around values (legitimacy) and outcomes (public outrage).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a thorough understanding of election reliability and the regulations governing parliamentary expense reimbursements, citing specific figures and past initiatives by EKRE. They utilize international comparisons (Russian elections, discussions regarding e-voting in Finland) and quote media sources (Novaya Gazeta) to back up their views. Furthermore, they are well-versed in the operational procedures of the National Defense Committee.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical and combative, employing highly charged emotional terms such as "tax terror" and "public outrage." Sarcasm and irony are favored, particularly when commenting on the coalition's actions, highlighting how they only seem to mobilize when financial issues are on the table. Numerous rhetorical questions are raised concerning the government's neglect of duties, underscoring the lack of public trust rather than relying on logical arguments.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during the plenary session, posing questions to the presenters on topics including national defense, e-voting, and expense allowances. The record indicates participation in the debate of several draft bills and an interest in the quality of processes and outcomes.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the ruling coalition and the Reform Party, who are criticized both for their policies (tax terror, disregard for e-elections) and their procedural conduct. The criticism is intense and calls the government’s legitimacy into question, citing public outrage and the lack of reliability regarding e-elections. The coalition is accused of indifference, except when the topic concerns their own financial compensation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Regarding one issue (national defense), recognition is expressed for the result achieved in the committee, describing it as "highly commendable" and inquiring about the potential for further development. In other matters (e-voting, expense reimbursements), the opposition stance and EKRE's historical resistance are highlighted, referencing earlier successes in reducing expense compensations.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views focus on strong opposition to the government's tax policy (the car tax, "tax terror"), emphasizing the public's outrage. They also support cutting parliamentary expenses, demanding a reduction in expense allowances for Riigikogu members, and referencing EKRE's previous success in limiting car leasing amounts.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient Data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on abolishing e-voting and cutting the expense allowances for members of the Riigikogu, with the speaker representing the opposition initiator and demanding tangible results. Furthermore, the work of the National Defence Committee is being monitored, and the government's proposed tax bills are facing criticism.
4 Speeches Analyzed