Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-02-27
Political Position
The political stance is fiercely oppositional, centered on the government’s (especially the Reform Party’s) lack of democratic principles and general untrustworthiness. Key issues include energy policy—which they argue should rely on national resources rather than diversification—and the government’s constant obfuscation and outright lies (regarding tax hikes and energy consumption forecasts). The overall political framework is heavily geared toward criticizing the government’s activities and ethical conduct.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in energy policy and financial matters, citing specific figures (15 TWh, the 2.6 billion scheme) and procedural details (state aid rules, the role of Sumitomo/Eesti Energia). Particular emphasis is placed on the inconsistency of government forecasts and the socialization of costs, demanding detailed justification for the rationale behind these decisions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply aggressive, accusatory, and skeptical, employing strong terms such as "fumbling and lying" and "Reform Party illiberalism." The speaker points out logical inconsistencies (the socialization of costs versus the loosening of state aid), but does so sarcastically, even personally, by questioning the comprehension skills of a colleague (Igor Taro) and offering him remedial courses.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data is limited to three interventions during a single plenary session, where questions were addressed to ministers and other members of the Riigikogu. All these appearances were focused on the detailed scrutiny of the government's decisions and responses.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponents are the Reform Party and the liberals, who face fierce criticism regarding their undemocratic tactics, falsehoods (tax hikes), and incompetent energy policy. The criticism is intense, spanning from major political issues (the cancellation of the 2.6 billion scheme) to direct challenges to personal competence (Igor Taro). There is no apparent willingness to seek a compromise.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no information regarding cooperation, willingness to compromise, or cross-party activity; the style is purely confrontational and focuses on holding government members accountable.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national energy policy, state consumption, and the use of taxpayer money. There is no regional or local focus; all topics covered are of nationwide importance.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is critical of socializing taxpayer funds and relaxing state aid regulations, insisting on fiscal responsibility. He criticizes the government for breaking its pre-election promises regarding tax hikes and favors resource-driven economic planning in energy policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, the liberals' "diversity narrative" is brought up, which is deemed irrelevant or an incorrect foundation for decision-making within the context of energy policy. This indicates skepticism toward value-based social agendas in technical policy areas.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus centers on scrutinizing and criticizing the government's major decisions (the energy scheme) and procedures (false memos, undemocratic practices). The emphasis is on oversight and demanding accountability, rather than initiating new legislation, thus functioning more as an oppositional watchdog.
3 Speeches Analyzed