Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Second Reading of the Draft State Supplementary Budget Act for 2024 (456 SE)
2024-06-14
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, additional plenary session
Political Position
The political position is one of strong opposition to the supplementary budget and the associated tax policy, emphasizing that it fails to solve the problems facing society. The speaker accuses the Reform Party of lying before the elections and, based on their values, prioritizing the wealthy at the expense of children and large families. The focus is on highlighting the government's operational failures and unethical conduct.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in fiscal policy and taxation, focusing specifically on the effects of income tax amendments. This expertise is substantiated by the use of data and tables from the Ministry of Finance, citing specific figures for the size of the budget deficit (€550 million) and the distribution of income across deciles. The speaker is capable of refuting opponents' arguments using official data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and emotional, focusing on moral indignation (taking money from children). The speaker repeatedly levels direct accusations of lying ("You have been lied to") and employs strong negative metaphors (e.g., "pigs in the rye," "wicked fairy tale character") to condemn the opponents' actions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the ongoing Riigikogu session during the second reading of the supplementary budget, utilizing the previously submitted request to speak. He/She refers to previous interviews (Õhtuleht, Vikerraadio) and election campaigns, but information regarding other regular activity patterns is unavailable.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponent is the Reform Party, which is being accused of systemic lying and brazenness in the run-up to the elections, as well as favoring the wealthy at the expense of national defense and children. Particularly sharp criticism is aimed at Annely Akkermann, whose assertions regarding the benefits of eliminating the tax hump are being labeled as misinformation, citing data from the Ministry of Finance.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker concurs with the positions held by other opposition politicians (Urmas Reinsalu, Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart) regarding the shortcomings of the supplementary budget. There is no indication of a willingness to compromise with the coalition; rather, the government's actions are characterized as extremely negative.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on fiscal issues and social inequality affecting Estonian society and the economy at the national level. There is no emphasis placed on specific regions, local governments, or regional projects.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views are strongly oriented towards social justice and redistribution, standing in opposition to tax hikes (VAT, car tax, land tax) that severely affect low-wage earners and families. The speaker criticizes the preferential treatment of the wealthy via income tax changes, which funnel 98% of the benefit to the highest-earning half of society.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social focus is on the economic well-being of families with children, large families, single parents, and the elderly. The speaker sharply criticizes the reduction of family benefits, which, in their view, directly harms Estonia's birth rate and future workforce.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposing the 2024 supplementary budget bill (456 SE) and criticizing the associated tax package (VAT, car tax, and land tax). The speaker is acting as a strong opponent to the proposed legislation, highlighting its negative social and economic consequences.
2 Speeches Analyzed