Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Draft law on the partial repeal of the Value Added Tax Act Amendment Act (489 SE) – first reading
2024-11-11
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, demanding the reinstatement of the land tax increase cap (Bill 489 SE) and opposing the coalition's tax policy in its entirety. The policy approach is framed around core values, accusing the government of dishonesty and labeling it a "red" government whose actions are fundamentally wrong. Emphasis is placed on the need to restore citizens' trust in the state, which has been jeopardized by "lying politicians."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates expertise regarding the Land Tax Act and the limitations placed on the tax autonomy of local governments (LG), specifically by disputing the government's claims about the expansion of LG autonomy. Possesses knowledge of macroeconomic factors influencing land prices, referencing quantitative easing (money printing) and renewable energy subsidies. Utilizes specific references to prior legislative amendments and votes (e.g., the June 19 amendment).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetoric is combative, accusatory, and cynical, employing powerful emotional appeals to illustrate the negative impact of political decisions (e.g., "the little old lady from Nõmme," or "even the home is falling apart"). Labeling is frequently used, referring to the opposition's arguments as "red talk" and politicians as "liars." The style is predominantly value- and emotion-driven, focusing heavily on political injustice and deception.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches are related to a specific legislative process (the first reading of Bill 489 SE) and broader discussions concerning obstruction. Reference is made to earlier debates and votes held by the government and various committees. Future political adjustments regarding the green transition in Europe and Estonia are predicted following the US presidential elections.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is directed against the coalition and its politicians, criticizing both political dishonesty (Jaak Aab changing his position) and the inherent harmfulness of the policy itself. The coalition is accused of implementing tax hikes that disproportionately affect people who are already struggling to make ends meet, and of shifting responsibility onto local governments (LOVs). Ideologically, the government is branded as "reds" for pursuing a tax policy based on asset valuation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on the impact of land tax on specific target groups, both in urban areas (the elderly in Nõmme) and in rural areas (agricultural entrepreneurs). It emphasizes that the taxation of productive land in rural regions fails to take actual profitability into account.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly opposes tax increases (land tax, VAT, car tax) that harm families and people struggling to make ends meet. It criticizes asset-value-based taxation (land tax), calling it "red rhetoric" that forces people to put their real estate "into circulation" (i.e., monetize or sell it). It supports setting limits on tax increases to protect citizens from effective tax hikes.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is on social security and family support. It criticizes the government for cutting benefits and eliminating tax incentives for families with children. Furthermore, it stresses the necessity of protecting the elderly and those facing economic hardship, ensuring they are not forced to sell their homes due to rising taxes.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is supporting the draft legislation (489 SE) on the partial repeal of the Act amending the Land Tax Act, in order to restore the cap on land tax increases. More broadly, the focus includes opposition to the coalition's tax policy and the transfer of social welfare reform costs to local governments (LGUs).
4 Speeches Analyzed