After the “Oligarchs”: Argumentation Strategies in the Parliamentary Elections Campaigns

During the period of time starting from 9th Saeima Latvian political scene changed significantly. Emergency parliamentary elections in autumn 2011 completely changed Latvian Republic’s political scene. So-called “oligarchs” parties disappeared from the scene and since the elections government leader is liberal-conservative, center-right party. Changes in political discourse were expected also viewing parties election programs. Whether the discourse changed not only theoretically, but practically? Communication with electorate provides citizens information to be able to vote for the appropriate candidate. Argumentation and speakers interaction are important aspects in the context of political discourse. Unlike more empirical discourse analysis, argumentation theory and its descriptive and evaluative elements intend critical dimension. In the study presented argumentation analysis of media materials is made according to Walton’s argument classification model. Conclusions about political culture in Latvia are made based on the arguments used by political actors. In the big picture results of the study are related to democratic state order.