[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 60 (Tuesday, April 19, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E529]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING TRENT HARMON, 15TH AND FINAL WINNER OF ``AMERICAN IDOL''

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TRENT KELLY

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 19, 2016

  Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, April 7, 2016, was an exciting 
night for Mississippians, as we were represented by gifted vocalists, 
Trent Harmon, of Amory, and La'Porsha Renae, of McComb, the final two 
contestants during the farewell season of ``American Idol.'' While 
Trent was ultimately victorious, he and La'Porsha have bright futures 
ahead of them and made Mississippi proud.
  Born and raised in the First District of Mississippi, I was inspired 
by Trent's faith in God, hard work ethic, and humility. During the 
process, Trent was diagnosed with mononucleosis and was given the 
option to quit the show. Thankfully, Trent's hard work and 
determination allowed him to compete and overcome the illness.
  Throughout the season, Trent was proud of his state and his state was 
proud of him. This was on display during the hometown parade and 
concert. Thousands of fans flocked to the parade in downtown Amory 
wearing blue and white ``Team Trent'' shirts, businesses had ``Vote for 
Trent'' signs in their windows, and fans crowded Amory High School to 
watch Trent perform. This is what is special about Mississippi. People 
are proud of where they come from and are happy to see each other 
succeed.
  Most importantly, Trent had the love and support of his family. He 
discussed working on his family farm and restaurant and the need to 
leave in order to find success in the music industry. Even though he 
had to leave Amory, his family, community, and state continued to 
support his dream. I congratulate Trent on his success and wish him the 
best in his future career.

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