CONGRATULATING BULGARIA

On 2026-06-09, Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC-2) delivered a floor speech titled "CONGRATULATING BULGARIA" in the House.

CONGRATULATING BULGARIA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E552] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CONGRATULATING BULGARIA ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, as founder and co-chair of the Bulgaria Caucus, I am grateful to congratulate Bulgaria on winning its first ever Eurovision Song Contest. Ever since my service as an election observer in Bulgaria, 36 years ago today, I have been inspired by the talented people of Bulgaria with its extraordinary history from the time of ancient Thrace. I have seen firsthand brave Bulgarians emerge from communist oppression to achieve dynamic EU and NATO membership. Eurovision 2026 marked the 70th edition of this celebrated competition, showcasing musical talent from nations across the continent. Held from May 10 through May 16, the contest brought together 35 nations competing for the prestigious Crystal Microphone at the Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna, Austria. Choreographed by Fredrik Rydman and Keisha von Arnold, the winning display was as dominant as it was energetic as they became the first team in nearly a decade to win the televote and jury vote. The winning song, ``Bangaranga,'' was performed by Darina Nikolaeva Yotova, known as ``Dara,'' and written by Anne Judith Wik, Cristian Tarcea, and Dimitris Kontopoulos. This win is the culmination of hard work by the team of performers, writers, and choreographers. I congratulate Bulgaria on their victory and I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors. ____________________