Texas Rural Report
Straight from the dirt roads to the Capitol, Texas Rural Report brings you the real stories behind the policies shaping our rural communities. Hosted by a seasoned legislative consultant and rural Texan, this podcast dives deep into healthcare, education, and economic development issues and, explores how the decisions made in Austin impact rural Texans. With exclusive interviews featuring Capitol insiders and Texans on the front lines, the Texas Rural Report breaks down complex policies in a way that empowers listeners to stay informed and take action. Whether you’re a community leader, small business owner, educator, or just passionate about the future of rural Texas, this podcast is your go-to source for insight and advocacy.
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Texas Rural Report
Rural Texans Interview with Cass County Judge Travis Ransom
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In this episode of Texas Rural Reporter, Suzanne Bellsnyder sits down with Travis Ransom, County Judge of Cass County, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of rural Texas—and who gets to shape it.
The discussion tackles one of the most urgent but underfunded issues in rural Texas: roads. With nearly 1,000 miles of county roads and limited revenue, Ransom lays out the reality of maintaining critical infrastructure, argues for redirecting a portion of the motor fuels tax, and shares ideas for innovative funding tools to keep rural Texans safe—especially during economic downturns.
Suzanne brings the conversation back to the people behind the policy, reflecting on town halls, grassroots advocacy, and the responsibility communities have to speak up for their water, land, and future. Together, they explore why small towns matter, how private property rights intersect with development, and what it will take to build a durable network of rural advocates.
This is a grounded, practical conversation about roads, resources, and representation—rooted in rural Texas and focused on what it takes to protect communities for the long haul.