Cape News

Rep. Jason Smith, who represents Missouri’s 8th district in the U.S. Congress, posted a series of messages on social media addressing both the legacy of Charlie Kirk and concerns about tax-exempt hospitals.

On September 16, 2025, Smith wrote, "Last night, I joined my colleagues to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk. I continue to pray for his family, our nation, and for justice to be delivered." The following day, he referenced a committee meeting by stating, "I opened today’s Ways and Means Committee markup with a tribute to my friend, Charlie Kirk. Charlie's faith and dedication to free speech are an incredible inspiration to us all. His wife, Erika, and two children remain in my prayers."

In addition to these tributes, Smith addressed healthcare policy issues on September 17, 2025: "The data is clear. Many tax-exempt hospitals, that receive generous tax benefits, take more from the taxpayers than they invest back into the health care mission in their communities, and it isn’t close. Many tax-exempt hospitals have strayed from their health care mission in"

Smith has served in Congress since 2013 after succeeding Jo Ann Emerson. He previously served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2005 to 2013. Born in St Louis in 1980 and currently residing in Salem, Smith holds degrees from the University of Missouri and Oklahoma City University.