In Session with Rep Rita

Rita Harris
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In Session with Rep. Rita takes you beyond the headlines and into the heart of Florida politics with State Representative Rita Harris. Known for her straight talk, compassionate advocacy, and a touch of snark, Rep. Rita brings you behind the scenes of the legislative process, tackling the issues that matter most to everyday Floridians. Each episode dives into real stories, real struggles, and real solutions—from public education and housing to reproductive rights and the fight for democracy. Whether she's breaking down bills, amplifying community voices, or just sharing a laugh with guests, Rep. Rita keeps it honest, relatable, and always in service. Pull up a seat—session is in.

Episodes

  1. Back in Session

    2d ago

    Back in Session

    Welcome back to In Session! After a busy legislative session and special session in Tallahassee, Representative Rita Harris is kicking off Season 2 with a look ahead at what's coming next. This season, we'll be diving into the issues that matter most to Floridians, from affordability and housing to healthcare, public education, the environment, and the policies shaping our communities. You'll hear from experts, community leaders, advocates, and everyday Floridians as we explore the challenges facing our state and the solutions that can help move Florida forward. Whether you're a longtime listener or joining us for the first time, welcome to the conversation. This Season on In Session: Affordability and the rising cost of livingProperty taxes and housingPublic educationHealthcare accessEnvironmental protectionWorkforce developmentCommunity stories and constituent voicesBehind-the-scenes perspectives from TallahasseeThank you for listening and being part of the conversation.

    28 min
  2. In Session with Rep Rita: Middle Class, Maximum Pressure

    Apr 22

    In Session with Rep Rita: Middle Class, Maximum Pressure

    n this episode of In Session with Rep Rita, I sit down with someone from our community to talk about something I hear all the time right now. People are working hard, doing what they are supposed to do, and it still does not feel like enough. This is a real conversation about what it looks like to be middle class right now. The cost of groceries, housing, insurance, and just everyday life keeps going up, and families are feeling it in a very real way. We talk about the stress that comes with trying to keep up, the decisions people are having to make, and how hard it can be to plan ahead when everything feels uncertain. This is not about politics as usual. It is about lived experience. It is about what people are going through right now. These are the voices that should be shaping the decisions we make. Thank you for being here and for staying engaged.

    36 min

  3. Mar 28

    Session Summary

    Friends, we made it through another legislative session—and if it felt long, that’s because it was. In this episode, I walk you through the biggest headlines, the real impacts behind the bills, and what you should actually be paying attention to (not just what’s trending online). Key Topics Covered What Passed Major budget decisions and where your tax dollars are goingKey legislation impacting affordability, insurance, and everyday costsWins that will directly benefit our community What Didn’t Make It Important bills that stalled or were left behindMissed opportunities that could have helped working familiesWhat I was fighting for didn’t cross the finish line The Controversial Stuff Bills that sparked real debate on the House floorWhat these policies actually do vs. how they were presentedWhy some of these issues matter long after the session ends The Budget Reality Check Where the state chose to invest—and where it didn’tWhat this means for schools, healthcare, and local communitiesThe big picture: priorities vs. politics My Takeaways This session moved fast—but not always in the right directionAffordability continues to be one of the biggest issues facing FloridiansThere’s a growing gap between what people need and what’s being prioritizedThe work doesn’t end when the session gavels outWhat’s Next How these new laws will start impacting youWhat I’ll be working on during the interimHow you can stay engaged and make your voice heard Let’s Stay Connected Have a question about a bill or how something affects you? Reach out—I’m here to help. If You Enjoyed This Episode Share it with a friend or neighborLeave a reviewFollow In Session with Rep. Rita so you never miss an update

    32 min
  4. In Session: Mid-Session Breakdown

    Mar 1

    In Session: Mid-Session Breakdown

    Recorded mid-session, I go over what's been happening in Tallahassee so far.

    34 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    Budgets, Classrooms, and Consequences

    🎙️ In Session with Rep. Rita Funding Our Future: A Conversation on Public School Funding In this episode of In Session with Rep. Rita, I’m joined by Orange County School Board Member for District 6, Stephanie Vanos, for an important and timely conversation about public school funding and what it means for our students, educators, and families. We break down how public schools are funded, where the gaps exist, and how state and local decisions directly impact classrooms. Stephanie brings her perspective from the School Board, sharing what she’s seeing on the ground and why transparency and community engagement matter for education dollars. This episode is about more than budgets. It’s about values, priorities, and the future we’re building for our kids. How residents can stay informed and engaged in School Board decisions Stay engaged: Orange County residents can watch School Board meetings, review agendas, and stay informed by visiting the Orange County Public Schools website here: 👉 https://www.ocps.net/about_us/school_board/board_meetings Public participation matters. An informed community is a powerful one. Thank you for tuning in and for caring about our public schools.

    30 min
  6. Medicaid in Crisis – The Real Cost of Cuts in Florida

    07/14/2025

    Medicaid in Crisis – The Real Cost of Cuts in Florida

    In this episode of In Session with Rep. Rita, I sit down with two incredible guests—Dr. Isiah Cochran and Dr. B.J. Brunious—to discuss the very real, very urgent impacts of Medicaid cuts in Florida. We cover everything from what these cuts mean for patients, providers, and hospitals. Whether you're a parent, a healthcare worker, or just someone who cares about the well-being of your neighbors, this conversation will explain how policy decisions made in Tallahassee affect lives across the state. We’re not just talking stats; we're talking stories. Guests: 🩺 Dr. Isiah Cochran – Family Physician and Healthcare Advocate 🩺 Dr. B.J. Brunious – Internal Medicine Physician and Health Policy Expert Host: 🏛️ Rep. Rita Harris – Florida House District 44 🎧 Tune in and get the full picture—because healthcare in Florida is on the line.

    46 min
  7. In Session: Legislative Recap

    07/03/2025

    In Session: Legislative Recap

    A Legislative Recap, including a bit of an overview on the budget.

    28 min

  8. 06/04/2025 ·  Bonus

    An Introduction

    Hey y’all — and welcome to the very first episode of In Session with Rep. Rita! I’m Representative Rita Harris, and I started this podcast because I believe you deserve more than soundbites and headlines. You deserve a seat at the table, a clear view of what’s really happening in Tallahassee, and a voice in the conversations that shape our lives. This show isn’t just about politics — it’s about people. It’s about pulling back the curtain, breaking things down in plain language, and making sure the decisions that affect our communities aren’t made in silence or behind closed doors. So whether you’re tuning in from your car, your couch, or while walking the dog — I’m glad you’re here.

    10 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

In Session with Rep. Rita takes you beyond the headlines and into the heart of Florida politics with State Representative Rita Harris. Known for her straight talk, compassionate advocacy, and a touch of snark, Rep. Rita brings you behind the scenes of the legislative process, tackling the issues that matter most to everyday Floridians. Each episode dives into real stories, real struggles, and real solutions—from public education and housing to reproductive rights and the fight for democracy. Whether she's breaking down bills, amplifying community voices, or just sharing a laugh with guests, Rep. Rita keeps it honest, relatable, and always in service. Pull up a seat—session is in.

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