Lara Rhea

Lara Rhea has always had a passion for God and her family. She is the former Ms. Texas and Ms. Conservative United States (2012-2013). She is a political writer, blogger, and reporter living in Austin, Texas, and her passions are politics and healthcare. Among her many endeavors, Lara is also currently a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling and planning to become a licensed therapist. She is interested in mental health issues, but because of heart conditions which require her to have a pacemaker and defibrillator, she also has a vested interest in physical health and well-being. She is training for a half-marathon in support of the American Heart Association to show that those living with health challenges can still live a great quality of life. Her interest in politics began many years ago while working on a congressional campaign as a speech writer and campaign manager. With undergraduate degrees in English, Psychology, and Business, along with her passion for politics, she is able to write about various topics but typically focuses on Obamacare issues. Lara had a near-death experience when her heart stopped and sees things through the lens of a person who realizes there is a great purpose to life. She is currently writing a book about how the American health care system is under siege and would like to write about her spiritual journey as a heart patient, as well. After she graduates, Lara would like to advocate for mental health patients on legislative issues and bring awareness to the public about all healthcare related issues.