Cody Harris is a fifth-generation resident of East Texas, representing a rich heritage in the area. His family settled in Freestone County following the Civil War, with his great-grandfather being the last operator of the Wildcat Ferry on the Trinity River. Harris has roots deeply embedded in his community, where he continues to prioritize conservative values reflective of his upbringing.

Educationally, he completed his degree at Texas A&M University and participated in the Texas Agricultural Lifetime Leadership (TALL) Program. Since being elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 2019, Harris has risen to significant leadership roles, including serving as the Chair of the Local & Consent Calendars Committee and on several other key committees such as Agriculture & Livestock, Public Education, and House Administration.

Harris's legislative involvement extends further with his chairmanship on the State Water Infrastructure Fund Advisory Committee and as Vice-Chair on the House Natural Resources Committee. His active engagement reflects his commitment to addressing various critical issues, from education reform to natural resource management.

Legislative Initiatives and Political Leanings:

Harris has sponsored and co-sponsored several notable bills that offer insight into his political leanings and priorities. For instance, House Bill 2615 focuses on establishing trade diploma programs in public schools, aiming to tailor educational pathways to meet workforce demands. This aligns with his commitment to enhancing education and vocational training in Texas. The bill has seen action and was recently returned to committee for further consideration.

He co-sponsored House Bill 15, which proposes the creation of the Mental Health and Brain Research Institute of Texas. This bill aims to advance mental health research and funding, underscoring Harris's interest in health and welfare issues. It has gained significant traction and support, reflecting a positive sentiment among healthcare professionals and advocates.

Additionally, Harris has shown advocacy for consumer healthcare rights through Senate Bill 490, which mandates clear itemization of healthcare billing. This legislation is seen as a step toward enhancing transparency and protecting consumers, resonating positively among constituents. He also sponsored House Bill 93, aimed at restricting foreign ownership of agricultural lands, reflecting a strong stance on protecting local agricultural interests and national sovereignty. This bill addresses growing concerns regarding foreign influence in Texas agriculture.

His involvement in educational initiatives is further highlighted through bills paying tribute to local educators, indicating a strong appreciation for community and educational contributions, such as House Bill 2027, commemorating Nikki Roquemore Calhoun, a respected educator.

Family and Community Engagement:

Beyond his legislative roles, Cody Harris is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Taylor, are the proud parents of three sons and a daughter, fostering values of community and faith as active members in their local church, First Baptist Church, where Harris serves as a Deacon. His prior involvement with the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce, the Palestine YMCA, and as a business mentor for Palestine ISD highlights a commitment to community service and development.

Harris’s legislative work reflects a firm alignment with conservative principles, prioritizing education reform, health care transparency, and local agricultural and community interests, while actively participating in community service through various local organizations.