In 2002, the 24-year-old Reed challenged Representative Sara Steelman for the 62nd legislative district, winning an upset. Both candidates made improving the local economic climate part of their platforms. Reed was inspired to challenge Steelman after seeing fellow 20-something Jeff Coleman defeat another long-term Democrat in the adjacent 60th legislative district. As a challenger, Reed followed the campaign blueprint established in 2000 by when young Jeff Coleman defeated Tim Pesci in nearby Armstrong County. Coleman personally assisted Reed in his campaign, from recruiting campaign help to advising him on his campaign statements.