One recent Atascocita High graduate seems to understand that all politics is really local.

Former House Speaker Tip O'Neill once famously quipped it, Krystafer Redden lives it, spending much of his time 'getting out the vote' for Democratic candidate Dr. Diane Trautman for Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector. Redden explained that there are a variety a tasks and challenges that have been beneficial and highly educational.

"Campaigns can be exhausting, by their very nature; however, by the same token, they are extremely and profoundly rewarding endeavors."

Redden explained, "I assist with fundraising, candidate call time, cold calling, data entry, database building, Texas Ethics Commission reporting, and we are in the process of planning a coordinated youth outreach and civic education project that I am very excited about. I help with campaign events, and will help open the campaign offices in Crosby and Kingwood."

Redden is no stranger to the campaign trail, and has served as a campaign volunteer for three other Democratic candidates, including presidential candidate John Edwards, and Trautman when she ran against Rep. Joe Crabb in 2006. He remained in touch with her and was thrilled to work with her again.

"I was in involved in her previous campaign for State Representative, and kept in touch with her after that. I sat on her campaign cabinet, and when I heard that she was looking for interns I jumped at the chance and submitted my information and applied. I believe very strongly that Diane is an exemplary, ethical, principled leader, and think she can make a real difference at the Harris County Tax office, as well as engaging the youth in the political process, and serving all citizens of Harris County."

Trautman said, "I am thrilled to have Krystafer intern with us this summer. He is a constant reminder of how important it is for our young people to get involved in the electoral/political process. Krystafer is a very quick learner and I want him to have a chance to work with every facet of the campaign and especially in opening our campaign offices in the Kingwood and Crosby area this summer."

He says that political involvement is important because of the potential impact it can obviously have in any election, especially at the most local levels.

"I just want to encourage all the youth locally, statewide and around the nation to become involved with politics on whatever level they feel most comfortable. Do not let inexperience or lack of knowledge discourage you! Just become involved and jump in with both feet; get wet. As the next generation to inherit the earth, this great nation, and the state, we must be invested and involved with politics and government, as well as public policy as a vehicle to influence and change society and our community for the amelioration of all; make a difference, be a catalyst, a progressive change agent! Make a lasting impact, make a difference. And do not be solely fixated on national politics: it is great, glamorous and fun, but get involved locally as well...The issues and problems that we face in our daily life are handled primarily on the local level... So get involved."

Redden will continue his work with the campaign through the fall and be enrolled in The University of Houston's Honors College as both a History and English major.