Ogre municipality residents: specific candidates matter more than parties in elections

Residents of Ogre municipality shared their thoughts on the voting system and their expectations for the new Saeima in a series of interviews. Several noted that online voting would simplify the process, though it could prove difficult for older people who are more comfortable voting in person.

Specific candidates matter more

Some residents said they care more about supporting a particular person than a party as a whole, basing their choice on how a candidate communicates and works. Others take the opposite view, saying voting for parties is the correct principle.

There is broad agreement that the voting age of 18 is appropriate, but several residents feel schools should teach more about the Saeima, politics, and the election process, saying the topic currently gets too little attention in the curriculum. A first-time voter studying at Ogre Technical School said a mock election held at the school helped him better understand the process, and highlighted the size of student stipends as an issue important to him.

Main expectations for the new Saeima

Residents listed several areas where they expect change: clarity in education policy, wage growth, a revised tax system, and support for families facing hardship. They pointed out that food and fuel prices have risen significantly recently, and said wages should keep pace with rising costs.

Some residents called for more attention to vulnerable groups, including homeless people, while others criticized how funds have been spent on projects such as airBaltic and Rail Baltica, saying the money could be used more wisely. Several respondents emphasized the importance of economic growth and raising living standards, and expressed hope that pro-Russian political forces would not come to power.