Scott Turner has been officially confirmed as the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a crucial position in addressing the nation's pressing housing concerns under President Donald Trump's administration. Formerly an NFL player and a Texas state representative, Turner's appointment was ratified by a 55-44 Senate vote, making him a pivotal member of Trump's cabinet.
HUD plays a significant role in enforcing federal housing laws and providing assistance to lower-income families, the elderly, and the disabled. It also focuses on community development and reducing homelessness, notably among veterans. Turner steps into this role amid rising housing costs and increasing demands for both affordable housing solutions and economic revitalization in struggling urban areas.
Turner, admired for his leadership skills, follows Jack Kemp as the second professional football player to hold this position. Notably, Turner is the only Black member in Trump's cabinet, following Ben Carson, who previously held this position during Trump's first term. Turner's confirmation brings a new dynamic to the department, especially considering Trump's ambitious plans for 'freedom cities' and reducing housing costs through innovative solutions and immigration policies.
In his confirmation speech, Turner emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive housing development across the U.S. He stated, As a country, we are not building enough homes. We need millions of homes, all kinds of homes — multifamily, single family, duplex, condo, manufacturing housing, you name it — we need housing in our country for individuals and families to have a roof over their head and to call home.
Turner's prior experience as the Executive Director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council highlights his capability to drive substantial change. This council launched the 'opportunity zone' program to increase private investment in economically disadvantaged areas. This initiative, pivotal to Trump's economic strategy, encourages investments by allowing tax deferment on gains reinvested into these zones, with the program currently set to expire in 2026.
During his tenure at the council, Turner witnessed firsthand the revitalizing effects of such policies. He remarked, I saw firsthand the impact of this initiative, as it gave Americans living in underserved communities an opportunity, a foundation to start businesses, to live in better homes, to be self-sustaining, to be confident, and to unleash that promise and potential that the lord has given each of us in our country.
Supporters of Turner, such as Senator John Barrasso, praised the $50 billion in private investments secured for struggling communities under Turner's guidance. These investments helped to revitalize many forgotten communities, Barrasso noted, affirming Turner's ability to initiate significant progress in housing and economic development.
As Turner's leadership unfolds, he inherits the challenge of transforming the housing landscape to meet these growing demands efficiently and equitably, harnessing both public and private investments to foster thriving communities nationwide.