Halsoni for Delegate

Halsoni

Ruben
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Pronouns
he/him
TNP Nation
Halsoni
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Hello, my fellow North Pacificans and friends. I’m Ruben/Halsoni, and I’m here to ask for your vote to be your elected Delegate.


Who is this guy?


Most of you are probably aware of who I am, but for those who aren’t or need a quick refresher, here’s my curriculum vitae. I started playing NationStates in October 2021 and participated in a couple of UCRs for a few years. Never have I felt that I belonged in the user-created regions because I had grander ambitions. I’m a Feederite through and through. I love the GCRs, and I love The North Pacific. My way of playing this game is rather in sync with TNP’s robust culture and love for rum. I know this is my spot, and after serving this region for quite a bit now, I want to officially go for the big seat.

Below is a detailed version of what I’ve done in the past two or so years in The North Pacific, but here’s the gist of it: I’ve served as a two-term Vice Delegate, two-term Chief of Staff, two-term Minister of Communications, Minister of Culture, Minister of Defence, Gameside Advocate, Executive Deputy Minister of Communications and as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, Culture and Communications. I’m on the FA Committee and NPA Reform Committee, I’m an Executive Staffer in all ministries, I’ve served as an ambassador to several of our most important allies, and I’m a former enlisted soldier in the NPA and currently a brevet general.

I began my career as a staffer in various ministries, and after its revival, I developed a keen interest in Communications under then-Minister Kaschovia. Through hard work and dedication, I was eventually promoted to Deputy Minister of Communications. I continued in this role after Kaschovia’s resignation when former Minister Bobberino took over. Following Kaschovia’s victory in the General Elections of September 2023, and Robespierre’s appointment as Minister of Communications in place of Bobberino, I was elevated to Executive Deputy Minister, becoming his right-hand man and overseeing our written publications while also regularly appearing on the Northern Broadcast Service. When Kaschovia was reelected and Robespierre moved to Defence, I finally stepped into the role of Minister of Communications, serving a full term. During my tenure, I successfully oversaw the release of five editions of TNS, three issues of TNL, and two broadcasts on NBS. Later, Delegate Simone asked me to step in for former Minister AraFuttio to complete the remaining term. Despite some differences, I agreed to take on this responsibility for the greater good of the region. Over the next month and a half, we kept up the momentum by releasing weekly issues of The Northern Notes and completing two editions of The North Star. Under Delegate Picairn, I had the privilege of serving as Minister of Culture. In that capacity, I contributed to several semi-regular events and played a key role in organising a significant interregional event, although its launch was postponed due to factors beyond our control.

In January, I was elected Vice Delegate and have held this position for two terms now. Throughout my tenure, I focused on boosting our endorsement counts and ramping up our efforts. During former Delegate Chipoli’s first term, I took on the role of Chief of Staff, helping to execute his agenda effectively and efficiently. Since then, I've been a pivotal player in the executive's operations, credited with architecting much of its success. Chipoli has even referred to my appointment as “one of the best decisions [he’s] ever made.” I’m serving as Minister of Defence (or Commander-in-Chief), and am currently in the process of reforming the North Pacific Army using my power as Acting Delegate and pushing legislation through the Regional Assembly. I’ve also employed the help of seasoned veterans and enlisted personnel in the NPA Reform Committee, which I created, to advise me and speed up this search for a solution.

Following Chipoli’s resignation as Delegate, I immediately had to shift gears and take the in-game seat as the Acting Delegate. This was done in only one update thanks to the swift response of the NPA and the executive staff. Since then, I’ve been hard at work on increasing the gap between myself and Chipoli, which has gone quite well. As Acting Delegate, my first act was to address the region in a statement following the resignation. I had to change my focus from protecting the Delegate to being the Delegate, which was quite difficult in the first couple of days. Days before the resignation, I, in collaboration with Minister of Foreign Affairs Ghost, wrote our To Victory statement declaring victory over the Brotherhood of Malice following their cowardly retreat in the face of defeat, which was promptly released as soon as the dust had settled. We did a radio show about the resignation, too, which is still in the works to be released. I introduced Committees, which I’ll get into more detail later, and finally, the Ministry of Culture started Delegate Delirium in a very fabulous fashion, thanks to Ghost’s efforts. Our legislative agenda has also been pushed with bills in the RA aiming to release the NPA, remove the declassification requirements, and legislate the Delegate’s ability to serve as one of the required Executive Officers to give more freedom to the executive.

Additionally, I’ve served as Deputy Minister in Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, and Culture, alongside roles as a Gameside Advocate and enlisted soldier in the North Pacific Army. Overall, I've accumulated significant experience within TNP’s executive and security branches.

My full service record can be found here for those who’re interested in the exact dates.


How would this guy be Delegate?


My Acting Delegacy has been signified by a combination of hands-on and hands-off approaches. I like getting my hands dirty and getting truly involved with all the work that’s required to run the largest feeder in the game, but I can also recognise when I should take a step back and let someone with more expertise or energy in that area handle things. It’s something that’s always been tough, letting go, that is. I want things to always be perfect, which means that sometimes that requires a certain amount of toughness that all people who’ve served in the cabinet while I was Chief of Staff are aware of. I’m someone who provides results, and I want my cabinet to do the same. When a Delegate has a strong and active cabinet and executive staff, they generally don’t have to do much. That’s not the environment we live in, though. We do not have as much manpower as we used to, and we cannot rely on the methods of the past anymore. This is why I commit to being a regular presence on all TNP platforms, which I’ve already proven I’m capable of ever since joining TNP.


The Platform


What you're here for.

The Exterior

All external-facing ministries will be addressed in this section.

Defence/North Pacific Army
The North Pacific Army is a key component of our military strength, prestige, and influence abroad, and as Delegate, I will commit to strengthening it both internally and externally through badly needed reform. To do this, I will consult closely with the NPA Reform Committee, drawing on their expertise in precedent and history to guide sensible reforms that respect tradition while modernising the army for today’s challenges. I will also focus on making the NPA a more attractive and rewarding place to serve by creating incentives for enlistment and long-term activity, whether through medals, commendations, or structured opportunities for promotion and mentorship. Alongside recruitment, I will pursue rank reform that better reflects contribution and responsibility, ensuring that advancement feels meaningful, while also increasing operational output so that soldiers have more chances to serve and rise through the ranks. On the foreign stage, I will push for greater collaboration with our allies and commit the NPA to go all-in on the war effort against The Communist Bloc, both to defend our region’s democracy and to demonstrate solidarity with our partners. Finally, I will appoint a dedicated Minister of Defence to oversee daily operations, recruitment, and coordination with High Command, ensuring strong leadership, continuity of command, and clear lines of responsibility.

Foreign Affairs
Foreign Affairs is one of the most important ways we project the strength and values of The North Pacific to the rest of NationStates. As Delegate, I will work to ensure that our region continues to be a consistent, trusted, and respected voice in the interregional sphere. Part of this includes continuing the Foreign Affairs Digest and releasing another issue during my term, which will highlight our partnerships, explain our priorities, and make our foreign policy more accessible to the citizens of TNP. I will also prioritise close collaboration with our allies on the issues that matter most. This means going beyond simple communication to actively working together on joint projects, operations, and cultural initiatives that strengthen the bonds of friendship between our regions. In particular, I will seek to expand our collaboration within the Modern Gameplay Compact, building on the foundation already laid and turning it into a dynamic alliance that enhances our standing and effectiveness on the world stage. Diplomacy will not stop there. I will continue enlarging our diplomatic network, pursuing treaties and partnerships that expand our reach and open new doors for cooperation. The recent Treaty of Treasure Island with The West Pacific shows what is possible when we invest in building strong, mutually beneficial relationships, and I intend to carry that momentum forward. All of these efforts will contribute to a singular goal: creating a consistent and trustworthy image of The North Pacific as a reliable interregional power. Our partners should know that they can count on us, and our rivals should respect the weight and seriousness we bring to international affairs.

World Assembly Affairs
World Assembly Affairs has long been one of The North Pacific’s strongest institutions, and as Delegate, I will ensure that it continues to operate with the same professionalism and consistency that has made it a model for the wider game. The foundation of this will be the continued creation of regular voting threads and in-depth forum votes, which give our citizens the tools and information they need to make informed decisions. I will also make sure to recognise and applaud the work of our WA staffers, who put in countless hours of effort to keep this system running smoothly and at the high standard our community expects. At the same time, I believe it is important that we focus on the essentials. For this reason, I will put the World Assembly Mentorship Program on standby, allowing us to concentrate on maintaining the fundamentals of WA Affairs without stretching resources thin. By ensuring we are strong in the basics, we can create a stable platform for future growth and new initiatives when the time is right. Finally, I intend to pursue changes to our World Assembly voting policy, which I will present in detail later in the campaign. These changes will be aimed at ensuring our process remains transparent, effective, and aligned with the needs of The North Pacific. The World Assembly is central to our identity, and I will treat its stewardship with the seriousness and care it deserves.

The Interior

All internal-facing ministries will be addressed in this section.

Integration
Integration is the heart of our community, and I will make it a priority to ensure that new and returning people feel welcomed, engaged, and motivated to stay involved in The North Pacific. One of the ways I will achieve this is by increasing manual recruitment efforts through the use of leaderboards, rewards, and other incentives. Recognising recruiters for their hard work will not only boost numbers but also create a sense of pride and competition that benefits the entire region. Beyond recruitment, I will work to strengthen the Frontliners program by increasing both the number of active Frontliners and the level of engagement they bring. This will include more regular pings, better coordination, and a personal approach, reaching out directly to nations to encourage them to take part in the life of our community. By making Frontliner work more dynamically and rewarding, we can ensure a steady flow of new voices in our region. I will also continue the effort to transform the Regional Message Board into a true cultural hub of The North Pacific. Rather than letting it become a chaotic space, I will encourage initiatives that bring our culture forward, highlight regional achievements, and make the RMB a welcoming and vibrant space for all. The RMB should reflect the character of The North Pacific: active, proud, and full of life.

Culture
Culture is what gives The North Pacific its unique identity, and as Delegate, I will make sure that it continues to thrive. A strong cultural scene keeps our community vibrant and gives every member something to connect with, whether they are brand new or long-standing members. To that end, I will prioritise the release of at least two new issues of The North Star during my term, alongside a steady schedule of radio broadcasts that keep our region informed and entertained. I will also focus on building a regular rhythm of community events. Semi-regular activities such as movie nights, game nights, and casual voice chat hangouts will help us create a true “VC culture” where members can easily drop in, connect, and bond with each other. By encouraging this kind of informal, low-barrier interaction, we can foster stronger friendships and make participation in TNP culture accessible to everyone. At the same time, I will ensure that larger, hallmark cultural events remain a central feature of life in the region. Delegate Delirium, which has already been launched during my Acting Delegacy, will continue to be managed and released. The Lennarts, hosted through the Lennarts Committee, will receive my full support as a cornerstone of our cultural calendar. Alongside these, I will support seasonal and regional holiday events that bring us together and highlight the festive, inclusive spirit of The North Pacific.

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core ministries, I will also focus on several key priorities that cut across different areas of governance. First, I will undertake a reworking of the Delegate Directives to make them clearer, more effective, and easier to use as a governing tool. This will provide both the Delegate’s Office and the Cabinet with a stronger framework for executive action and ensure greater transparency in decision-making. I will also establish committees to address specific issues or oversee major projects. These committees, such as the already formed Foreign Affairs Committee, the NPA Reform Committee, the Lennarts Committee, and the Welcome Committee, will allow us to bring together citizens with relevant expertise and enthusiasm to contribute to the region’s success. By empowering more people to take part in governance, we will build both stronger outcomes and a more inclusive political culture. Finally, I will commit to being an active and visible Delegate. That means daily endotarting to maintain the security and stability of our government, engaging across all areas of The North Pacific, and regularly informing the region about what the executive branch is doing. Citizens should feel connected to their government, and I will make sure that communication and accountability are central to my Delegacy.

Frequently-Asked-Questions

Yes, I stole this from Chipoli’s campaign. Shush.

Will we have a delegate transition?
No, because as Acting Delegate, I took the seat in one update. We won’t lose endorsements because of the transition if I win, and my endorsements are currently going up, so I’d like to allow them to fly upwards into the skies! Basically, if we don’t do a transition and I win, we won’t lose any endorsements.

Do you have a cabinet assembled?
Partly, I’ll be talking to members of the cabinet to see if they wish to remain, and I’ll be contacting non-cabinet members to see if they’d be interested in a job. A strong cabinet means that I won’t get burnout within the first two weeks of getting elected, and the region will move forward in terms of progress, so I’m very motivated to find the best candidates for each position.


Conclusion


If elected, I will prioritise your wishes and focus on the internals and our military. I’ve had an extensive career in this region, and I know what needs to be done. If you consider voting for me and giving me this chance, I will be forever grateful.

Thank you for reading my platform. I’m reachable for questions via this thread, Discord/Forum DMs, RMB pings, telegrams, Discord pings and carrier pigeon.

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Are there any plans as to your endorsement level as delegate?
On the foreign stage, I will push for greater collaboration with our allies and commit the NPA to go all-in on the war effort against The Communist Bloc, both to defend our region’s democracy and to demonstrate solidarity with our partners.
Can you expand on how the NPA will be involved in the war against TCB?
One of the ways I will achieve this is by increasing manual recruitment efforts through the use of leaderboards, rewards, and other incentives. Recognising recruiters for their hard work will not only boost numbers but also create a sense of pride and competition that benefits the entire region.
I am glad to see this excellent idea.
 
First of all, I would like to say that I support your delegacy! Working with you firsthand, I have seen that you are tremendously dedicated and energetic, and I do believe that is what we need from a delegate at this time.

I do have a couple questions though.

1) In the culture section you say "To that end, I will prioritise the release of at least two new issues of The North Star during my term, alongside a steady schedule of radio broadcasts that keep our region informed and entertained."

What will change in the Culture Ministry to make this a reality? Considering the struggle in getting people engaged in simply one TNS issue, how will you make sure that 2 are published? Furthermore, although there have been a lot of radio shows held, none seem to have been published officially. Do you still plan on releasing the radio shows held during this term, and how do you make sure you won't run into the same issue again during the second term.

2) What about your integration approach will be different than the one of this administration, at least related to the frontliner/RMB part? (I do see there is a chance in the manual recruitment section, which I think is good and I agree with) You do say you intend to become more coordinated, and recruit more frontliners, but fundamentally the policy is very similar, and I am wondering how this strategy will magically get better and make the RMB more vibrant, as promised by this administration? Are there any other concrete steps you could see yourself taking in this regard?

Thank you!
 
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Are there any plans as to your endorsement level as delegate?
Keep doing what I'm doing, which is endotarting, maintaining a slackers dispatch, RMB engagement, telegrams, and working with the Security Council and the Vice Delegate on their plans. Seems to be working. My endorsements have been going up pretty consistently, even when the NPA is on a mission.
Can you expand on how the NPA will be involved in the war against TCB?
By being involved in R/D operations that prosecute the war effort.
I am glad to see this excellent idea.
Thank you!
What will change in the Culture Ministry to make this a reality? Considering the struggle in getting people engaged in simply one TNS issue, how will you make sure that 2 are published? Furthermore, although there have been a lot of radio shows held, none seem to have been published officially. Do you still plan on releasing the radio shows held during this term, and how do you make sure you won't run into the same issue again during the second term.
1. The North Star hasn't been released because of factors out of my control. I want to take control. I'll be inviting good writers to write a piece on TNS and publish it myself if I have to. Heck, let's make it cosy and get some foreign writers in here if they're interested.
2. By asking reliable people to edit them and regularly following up. I'll also be immediately demanding the recordings and sharing them with the Minister of Culture, so we can pick up the slack if need be.
2) What about your integration approach will be different than the one of this administration, at least related to the frontliner/RMB part? (I do see there is a chance in the manual recruitment section, which I think is good and I agree with) You do say you intend to become more coordinated, and recruit more frontliners, but fundamentally the policy is very similar, and I am wondering how this strategy will magically get better and make the RMB more vibrant, as promised by this administration? Are there any other concrete steps you could see yourself taking in this regard?
It's similar because I agree with Chipoli's approach. I believe consistency is key in this regard because you can't change the RMB in a day. It takes consistent effort from a large group of people. I'll be instructing my Integration Minister to closely follow the agenda I've put forth in order to ensure our results are better than this administration's. Like I said in my platform, to get more people, you need to personally reach out to people. It's worked so far, so I'll keep employing that strategy.
 
First of all, I would like to say that I support your delegacy! Working with you firsthand, I have seen that you are tremendously dedicated and energetic, and I do believe that is what we need from a delegate at this time.
Thank you! Your support is very appreciated.
 
I will simply quote my farewell address on how I feel about your campaign for Delegate:
I can say with complete confidence that [you are] more than ready and fully capable to serve as [TNP's] Delegate for the remainder of this term...

I've seen some encouraging signs from your Acting Delegacy period, and I still believe that your intense, hands-on approach is exactly what the region needs. It's safe to say, you have my support. I would like to pose you a question, though:

As Delegate, often your best ability is availability. It was clear that you were very active in the past couple of months, which contributed to your performance. This term will look different in terms of activity for many players, given that the academic season is now underway. How will your activity levels change, if at all, and will your activity over the next four months allow you to make meaningful progress on your agenda?
 
As Delegate, often your best ability is availability. It was clear that you were very active in the past couple of months, which contributed to your performance. This term will look different in terms of activity for many players, given that the academic season is now underway. How will your activity levels change, if at all, and will your activity over the next four months allow you to make meaningful progress on your agenda?
My schedule will obviously change now that I've started my second year of college today, which was a lot of fun. With a big internship and a government project coming my way, I will need to find a balance. However, I believe I can manage it. NationStates is generally enjoyable for me, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. While I know I won’t be able to be as active all day or stay up late, I expect my evenings will still be largely free, and I’ll probably be able to sneak a peek at it during class. ;)


Overall, my ability to do as much may decrease slightly, but I will continue to be as present as ever. I don't believe this will hinder any progress my administration aims to achieve in the next four months and beyond!
I will simply quote my farewell address on how I feel about your campaign for Delegate
This means so much coming from you, Chip.
 
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I know that I won't be voting because I'm not a citizen, but a have a question.

In the section of Integration, it states "Integration is the heart of our community, and I will make it a priority to ensure that new and returning people feel welcomed, engaged, and motivated to stay involved in The North Pacific. One of the ways I will achieve this is by increasing manual recruitment efforts through the use of leaderboards, rewards, and other incentives".

What rewards do you plan on using?
 
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I know that I won't be voting because I'm not a citizen, but a have a question.

In the section of Integration, it states "Integration is the heart of our community, and I will make it a priority to ensure that new and returning people feel welcomed, engaged, and motivated to stay involved in The North Pacific. One of the ways I will achieve this is by increasing manual recruitment efforts through the use of leaderboards, rewards, and other incentives".

What rewards do you plan on using?
Just want to step in real quick and remind you that as long as you’re a citizen by the time voting starts, you will be able to vote. So make sure you get your application in within the next few days.
 
Are you going to do anything for the Card's ministry or is it gone for ever?

Also, that's a very nice campaign. Your acting delegate term was briefly small but you looked good
 
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Are you going to do anything for the Card's ministry or is it gone for ever?
Ditto on Ayuzh’s question above ^
I’m not planning on bringing back the Ministry of Cards, no. If folks are interested in doing something with cards, they’re free to contact me and we can discuss the future of the cards guild and potential reforms in that area.
Also, that's a very nice campaign. Your acting delegate term was briefly small but you looked good
Thank you! Funnily enough, I think it’s one of if not the longest acting delegacies we’ve ever had. Ghost the history nerd can correct me if I’m wrong.
 
McMasterdonia here, Greitbart editor and Director with a few questions for you Halsoni.

The past few months you’ve experienced a lot, a plane bombing, and most importantly the purchasing of shares in the most significant media organisation in the region - Greitbart!

Also, you’ve brought a great deal of energy and activity into the region, which I have definitely noticed. Of course, being active as a Vice or a Minister is good, but being Delegate requires a whole new level of activity, accountability, and approachability for all.

Looking ahead, to a long stint as Delegate, how do you intend to ensure Ministers are held accountable for both their work and their inaction? Secondly how will you manage the delegating aspect of being Delegate? In my experience, I have seen many new Delegates struggle with both of these issues.

At times, the delegacy and the governments policy can come under attack or face awkward and frustrating situations where people are challenging. This can be sustained and over a period of time.

How will you manage your reactions in those moments, making sure you remain measured and considered?

Also, how will you work with the smaller communities within our large region, ensuring they are included and considered, while maintaining a consistent, and inclusive leadership style across all parts of the region?

My last question is really in relation to a comment in your opening post about the role of Vice Delegate was to protect the Delegate. I am curious about this statement and am keen to see if you can further elaborate on this.
 
I guess I do have a couple more questions, as the MoWAA under your administration, which I suspect I know the answers to, so mostly for the benefit of the reader:

1) When it comes to the General Assembly, what would you consider your ideological leanings, and furthermore, what makes differentiates a good General Assembly proposal from a bad one?

2) How will you ensure TNP retains its independence and sovereignty in the General Assembly, with the increase in the chamber's politicization and polarization?

I hope these will give information for those who care about the WA.
 
Are you going to do anything for the Card's ministry or is it gone for ever?

I’m not planning on bringing back the Ministry of Cards, no. If folks are interested in doing something with cards, they’re free to contact me and we can discuss the future of the cards guild and potential reforms in that area.

Being someone who served as the Deputy Minister of Cards, witnessing large scale activity under the ministry and the guild as well as the decline of the whole ministry later; I would be happy to see the cards ministry of the guild to return active.

The Cards Guild in TNP (or any other guilds in the world) was largely based on TCALS and multiple programs that revolved around it. With TCALS getting withdrawn the card programs all around the globe started to face problems. After that we didn't have any major card related events other than the Rewards Program, Weekly Card Czars and the annual Card Symposium. Both the Card Czars and Card Symposium has not happened for a long time now.

Even if the guild is brought back to life, how would it function as before? That too When the amount of players who were deeply rooted with cards are pretty low now and there's no visible ideas for future expansion. In this case, without a proper plan having the guild back isn't a good idea. There had been multiple plans to bring it back to life, but nothing seemed to bear fruit.
 
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