I always like using the galactic reforms as a way to screw with the AI, especially with living standards and then piling on the sanctions. I'm fanatic egalitarian, pacifist, subterranean, happy fungus farmers...

I could almost dominate the rest of the galaxy with my voting but was a bit shy of having enough weight. Then I realized the biggest opponent to the current resolution was my next door neighbor.

Me: Hey, want to be my subject? I would even give you access to some of the wonders I have constructed.

Them: Yes!

Me: Okay, here are the terms...

Them: Yeah, sure, no holdings, no joining your wars, shared sensors, have to vote with you, yeah, this looks amazing.

They sign, switch their vote and spend the next 429 days as a happy protectorate of my empire. Some of their science ships actually went into my space (for some reason). They get access to the vast stores of knowledge, helping them jump start their technology. They see a bright future ahead...

Resolution passes.

Me: You're on your own. Don't call us, we'll call you. Oh, and enjoy no more slavery and requirements for higher living standards.

I felt bad. And that felt so good.