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Episode Summary:

Most Texas voters don’t realize how deeply water, education, and growth policies are intertwined—and how they threaten our way of life. Your Soprano Big Sister, Elizabeth Herlitz Cortes, sits down with Merrie Fox, a passionate candidate for HD73, to uncover the truth behind the policies shaping our communities, from water rights to public school funding. Learn how Texas’ water management is caught in a web of political and corporate interests, risking future generations’ access to clean water. Discover the hidden realities of education policies that keep classrooms entangled in religious influence and standardized testing, often neglecting the skills that truly prepare kids for life. And explore how growth, development, and local control have been sacrificed to a state-centric agenda, fueled by big-money interests and political power plays. 

You’ll hear specific strategies for restoring local authority: how counties can fight back against overpumping and unregulated development, and why protecting our natural resources is a non-partisan issue that requires community voices—a message resonating across the political spectrum. Fox shares her vision of a future where growth pays for itself, where schools are supported without vouchers, and where the right to clean water and quality education isn’t a partisan battle, but a collective promise. 

This episode is perfect for voters frustrated by rapid development and disillusioned with politicians prioritizing billionaires over communities. If you believe in government that works for the people—based on facts, transparency, and local control—you’ll find hope in Fox’s campaign and her call for a government that truly listens. Merrie Fox is a candidate for HD73, known for her grassroots approach, community focus, and her advocacy for water and education reform in Texas. Elizabeth Herlitz Cortes, your "Soprano Big Sister," brings her signature blend of casual insight and sharp perspective. Get inspired, get informed, and discover tangible ways to support real change—because your voice matters more than ever. Join the movement for responsible growth, fair education, and clean water for all Texans.

About Dr. Merrie Fox: 

Dr. Merrie Fox is the Democratic candidate for Texas House District 73, covering all of Comal County and western Hays County. She spent 31 years as a public school teacher, coach and principal before retiring in 2023. Dr. Fox now serves as Executive Director of Circle Arts Theatre in New Braunfels. 

Connect with the Campaign:

Website: foxfortexas.com

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Get Involved: Volunteer, Phone Bank, or host a house party -- reach out through the campaign website. 

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This episode reflects the views of the guest and is presented for Voter Education. Soprano Big Sister is an independent platform; this is not paid political advertising. 

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Most Louisiana families are unknowingly paying hundreds of dollars more each year thanks to a deeply broken energy system—and most people have no idea. But Chris Justin, a licensed engineer with 15 years inside energy policy, is running to change that. He’s exposing the complex, often corrupt, mechanisms that keep energy bills skyrocketing while utility giants make record profits—without any accountability to the public.

In this eye-opening episode, Chris reveals how utility regulators are rubber-stamping billion-dollar deals that prioritize corporate profits over everyday affordability. You’ll discover the shocking truth behind ghost charges totaling $12 million, how return on equity is secretly doubling costs for consumers, and why so many Louisiana bills spike in summer—even when we burn natural gas locally.

You'll learn about the critical role of Louisiana’s Public Service Commission—who they are, what they do, and how rigged the deck really is. Chris shares his insider experience navigating this opaque world and his bold plan to fix it—without taking a penny from utility companies. From stopping unfair contract deals with Meta’s data centers to reforming how infrastructure is financed, his solutions are straightforward, effective, and essential for all ratepayers.

This is about more than just energy—it's about reclaiming power for the people. If you’re tired of paying inflated prices, frustrated by the system’s secrecy, or just want to understand why your bills are so high, this episode is your wake-up call. Perfect for Louisiana residents concerned about affordability, or anyone interested in how technical regulation impacts everyday lives—Chris’s campaign proves that competence and integrity can lead to real change.

Ready to cut through the noise and learn how YOU can help reform the system? Tune in now and discover how one engineer’s fight can transform Louisiana’s energy future—and put money back in your pocket.

Support the show

This episode reflects the views of the guest and is presented for Voter Education. Soprano Big Sister is an independent platform; this is not paid political advertising. 

Send us Fan Mail

In this first episode, we start at the beginning and discuss my 5 requirements for being a Soprano Big Sister. I also tell you how to enter our Giveaway! 

Support the show

This episode reflects the views of the guest and is presented for Voter Education. Soprano Big Sister is an independent platform; this is not paid political advertising. 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This episode reflects the views of the guest and is presented for Voter Education. Soprano Big Sister is an independent platform; this is not paid political advertising.