ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS: Guests, Chris Messina and Ryan Elijah.

Monday, June 29, 2026

Chris Messina:

An experienced tech entrepreneur and dedicated community advocate, Chris Messina is bringing a bold, entrepreneurial vision to Central Florida. Our campaign is focused on solving the critical challenges facing Orange County today: innovative job creation, affordable housing, and transportation solutions, while ensuring public safety and economic transparency.

Ryan Elijah:

Ryan is an Emmy-winning news anchor, having hosted the popular weekly show Orlando Matters, which provided viewers direct access to elected officials—from members of Congress to the President of the United States.

Ryan has always been involved with the community. During his broadcasting career, he created a consumer advocacy segment that returned thousands of dollars to residents in need. The segment frequently tackled complex federal issues, including Social Security disability benefits and consumer protection matters.

He has served on numerous boards, including the YMCA, a homeowners association, and a Christian school board, where he helped oversee budgets and operations. He was also appointed by Jacksonville Mayor John Delaney to serve on the Mayor’s Council. During that time, Ryan hosted television programming for the Jacksonville Jaguars and worked as a sideline reporter for the Jaguars Radio Network and Fox Sports.

Ryan is active in his church and around Central Florida. You'll often find his family at our theme parks or taking a cruise from Port Canaveral. He has great memories from coaching high school basketball and Little League baseball.