I grew in New Braunfels and my grandparents lived down the street. My grandfather, Lt. Col Robert J. Uhr, served his country and his party. He was a huge influence in my political shaping. He would take me to campaign rallies and to the voting booths where I sat quietly while he cast his vote. It made a lasting impression on me. He always told me voting wasn’t just about election day, it was about what goes on before and after that, and he encouraged me to understand the process.