By: Max Bruns ~Staff Writer~

First-year Philosophy, Politics & the Public major Tyler Harmon ran for a government position in Colerain Township, Ohio this month. His goal was to become trustee of the township, running as the youngest campaigner for the job, but the election outcome resulted in a loss for Harmon.

“Being as ambitious, and some would say crazy, as I am, when I see an opportunity like this, I jump at it,” Harmon said.

The trustee position involves regulating public safety, including fire and police departments, maintaining public roads and parks, signing off on zoning laws and petitioning for development projects.

“It’s not being a senator by any means, but many of the responsibilities of the two overlap,” Harmon said. As a first-year, Harmon is just old enough to campaign for the position.

“You have to be at least 18 years old. It’s like the lowest tier of government, and one that doesn’t have a lot of pressure. It includes monthly meetings and the odd extra day here and there,” Harmon said.

Harmon was a salutatorian at the La Salle high school in Cincinnati and is an intern for U.S. Sen. Rob Portman’s office, the Enquirer reported.

“I want to win because I want to be able to free up some money and bring more of it into the township. The budget is completely tied up, and I want to change that. I also want to raise some new developments and, most importantly, continue to fight the ever-growing heroin epidemic in the city,” said Harmon.

Harmon is the youngest to run for the position, with his three opponents all older than 30. This included the incumbent, Melinda Reinhart, a lawyer elected in 2011.

“With me as one of the faces of the township, I think we can see more of the younger generation to get involved and become active in the community,” Harmon told the Enquirer. “I’m also relatable, so I hope more of the township can now find someone to go to if they have problems.” Harmon received support from the community throughout the campaign.

“The campaign has been going really well. My roommates and friends have all been there for me, and I don’t hold any vendettas against my opponents. It’s been a clean race, and I’m excited,” Harmon said. The election took place Nov. 3, resulting in a loss for Harmon to candidate Greg Insco.