Reeder was a very loyal member of the Democratic Party and supported the idea of popular sovereignty which dealt with territories' decisions on the issue of slavery.

Reeder refused to ratify the results, called for a new election to fill the vacancies, and designated the townsite of Pawnee as the meeting place for the first territorial legislature.

[2][5] In May 1856, Reeder learned that he was likely to be indicted for high treason by the Lecompton government, and so he left the territory, disguised as a wood-chopper.

[2][4] Reeder returned to Pennsylvania and remained in politics, arguing in favor of the Free-State cause.

During the 1856 presidential election, he made speeches on behalf of John C. Frémont, the Republican Party's candidate.