[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 79 (Monday, May 11, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E423-E424]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING HANNAH HARPER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JASON SMITH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 11, 2026

  Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary talent and achievement of Hannah Harper of Willow 
Springs, Missouri, a proud daughter of the Ozarks who has captured the 
hearts of Americans across the country on American Idol.
  Hannah's journey to the national stage began in Bunker, Missouri 
where she grew up performing bluegrass gospel music in her family band. 
Hannah was raised with the values of faith, hard work, and community 
that define Missouri's 8th Congressional District. Those values have 
been on full display through her remarkable run on American Idol, where 
she has advanced from the top 20 to the top 3, earning her place at 
every stage through undeniable talent and authenticity.
  Her performances have resonated with audiences far beyond the Ozarks. 
During Holy Week, Hannah moved viewers across the Nation with her 
moving rendition of ``At the Cross''--a testament to the deep faith 
that has guided her and so many families through life. That performance 
said as much about where Hannah is from as it did about where she is 
going.

[[Page E424]]

  Week after week, Hannah has proven that rural Missouri produces 
world-class talent. She has made the Ozarks proud, and she has reminded 
a national audience of the strength, faith, and character that define 
the people of this region. I have no doubt that the best is still ahead 
for Hannah, and Missouri is rooting for her every step of the way.
  It is my great privilege to recognize Hannah Harper's extraordinary 
accomplishments today before the United States House of Representatives 
and officially proclaim May 6 as Hannah Harper Day.

                          ____________________