Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the coalition's cascade of taxes (car tax, VAT, income tax) and the raising of levies, viewing this as activity detrimental to the interests of the Estonian state and its people. Criticism is aimed both at the substance of the policy and the coalition's actions (the 'theater'), stressing that the primary objective for implementing these taxes is unclear and constantly shifting. The speaker calls upon other members of the Riigikogu to vote against these tax increases, urging them to follow their conscience.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the details of tax policy and the financing of local governments, repeatedly demanding impact assessments and concrete revenue forecasts for the years 2025–2027. Particular emphasis is placed on the social impact on rural areas and the transportation needs arising from the consolidation of the school network. The speaker is also familiar with the history of previous tax increases, citing, for instance, the temporary raising of VAT from 18 to 20.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, critical, and at times alarmist, accusing the coalition of anti-state activity and engaging in the "theater of the absurd." It employs both logical arguments (such as the lack of impact analysis and the ambiguity regarding the purpose of the taxes) and strong emotional and moralizing appeals (including calls for finding a conscience and warnings about people moving away from Estonia). Opponents are labeled as arrogant and as repeating Kremlin talking points.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has been very active during the extraordinary session, both giving general addresses and repeatedly participating in the question-and-answer rounds with the candidate for Minister of Finance and the presenters regarding the car tax and the financing of local governments.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the coalition parties (the Reform Party and the Social Democrats), who are criticized both for the substance of their policies and for procedural errors (fast-tracking legislation). The Social Democrats face particularly sharp criticism regarding the voting rights of Russian citizens and the promotion of hardcore Putinists, which is deemed hostile to the state. Opponents are accused of ignoring the financial well-being of families and remaining in power "in the name of completely incomprehensible interests."
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is not enough data.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The strong regional focus is directed towards rural areas, highlighting the necessity for families with children to own two cars, a requirement driven by the consolidation of the school network and inadequate public transportation. Regarding the financing of local governments, Viimsi, Saaremaa, and Võrumaa are cited as examples, coupled with a warning against the concentration of young people in the municipalities of the "golden ring."
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are strongly opposed to tax hikes, forecasting negative consequences such as cross-border shopping, an increase in the use of cash, and people moving away from Estonia. The stated purpose of tax collection is criticized, with the implication that it serves the redistributive apparatus rather than genuinely assisting the poor.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues addressed, the focus is on the financial coping mechanisms of families with children in rural areas and their access to education and extracurricular activities, which is being worsened by tax increases. The question of voting rights for citizens of the Russian Federation is also raised, with the speaker supporting the removal of these rights and accusing opponents of dividing society.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the tax increases (especially the car tax) being fast-tracked during the extraordinary session. Additionally, it is dealing with the draft bill on the financing of local municipalities, concentrating on its effect on the municipalities' motivation for development and demographic distribution.
6 Speeches Analyzed