The us might hate cuba but cuba being right under florida takes alot of potential open water energy away from any hurricane going between them, I expect that Rita is going to stay somewhat stable in speed/strength for the next couple hours until it comes out the other other of what I call the Flunnel(Florida/Cuba Funnel). I see it turning into a solid CAT1 within a couple hours as it really is quite well formed right now.

Predictions: Texas coast right along the NHC track, strong CAT2-weak CAT3 UNLESS it slows down.