Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, third session, plenary session
2024-05-28
Political Position
The political position is firmly in opposition to the government’s activities, focusing primarily on the irresponsible state budget, the increase in tax revenue at the expense of the less affluent, and the breaking of election promises (especially regarding the tax-exempt average pension). Furthermore, there is strong opposition to spending taxpayer money on accelerating the development of renewable energy (wind and solar parks). The position is strongly value-driven, emphasizing political dishonesty and systemic corruption.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of Riigikogu procedures (procedural questions, motion to interrupt the reading) and the specifics of budget policy, referencing concrete explanatory memoranda and earlier statements made by politicians (Annely Akkermann, Kaja Kallas). Furthermore, they are familiar with the content of the coordination table for the renewable energy bill and the feedback provided by businesses.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply confrontational and accusatory, utilizing sarcasm and emotional narratives (the story of old lady Mari) to illustrate the government's dishonesty and falsehoods. The speaker criticizes both procedural corruption and political betrayal, all while adhering to the formal structure of a parliamentary address. They also make note of historical moments, such as Jürgen Ligi’s admission of error.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The modes of action are limited to participating in plenary sessions and actively intervening, raising both procedural questions and motions to interrupt the reading of draft legislation. The speaker is an active participant in the debate, posing critical questions to the rapporteurs.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is aimed directly at the ruling government coalition (the Reform Party, the Social Democrats) and its leading members (Kaja Kallas, Jürgen Ligi, Annely Akkermann). The criticism is intense, focusing on political unethical behavior, the breaking of election promises, and systemic corruption (specifically, cronyism within the management/board).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
We lack sufficient information regarding the cooperation style because his appearances focus on opposition and criticism, even though he references the questions posed by other colleagues (Vooglaid).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is overwhelmingly national, dealing primarily with the country's fiscal policy and nationwide legislative changes. Specific regional projects or communities are not highlighted.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly fiscally conservative, opposing increases in tax revenue, especially those levied on pensioners and lower-income individuals. There is also sharp criticism of renewable energy developers seeking taxpayer funding, and demands are being made to limit state spending on subsidies.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, the welfare of pensioners and the elderly is emphasized, along with the political betrayal related to the promise of a tax-free average pension. This matter is being framed as a major moral issue.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently directed toward opposing government bills related to increasing tax revenue and the accelerated adoption of renewable energy. The speaker is an active opponent, proposing to halt the second reading and calling on colleagues to vote against the drafts.
4 Speeches Analyzed