Scott Turner has officially been confirmed as the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) following a Senate vote that concluded with a tally of 55-44. This confirmation comes as Turner prepares to tackle pressing issues within the housing sector, including rising homelessness and a lack of affordable housing options across the United States.
Turner, who previously served as a Texas State Representative and spent nearly a decade as a professional football player, is stepping into a role that has seen significant challenges in recent years. He was appointed to promote investment in distressed neighborhoods during President Trump’s first term and has now been tasked with leading HUD during a critical period.
During his confirmation hearing, Turner expressed concerns about HUD’s current effectiveness, stating that the agency is "failing at its most basic mission." He highlighted the alarming rates of homelessness and the ongoing shortage of affordable housing, which he believes leaves many Americans struggling to find secure living conditions. While he did not provide specific solutions during the hearing, he committed to reviewing all HUD programs to determine their effectiveness.
Turner faced questions from Senate Democrats regarding the potential for increased federal funding to address these issues. He responded by emphasizing that there is already substantial funding allocated to HUD, yet the needs are still not being met. This remark underscores the complexities of the housing crisis, which cannot be solved solely through financial means.
In his previous role as a Texas lawmaker, Turner had a mixed record on housing issues. He opposed expanding affordable rental housing and supported legislation allowing landlords to deny rental applications from individuals receiving federal housing assistance. These positions have raised questions about how his past actions will influence his leadership at HUD.
Turner also pointed out the need for streamlining HUD’s programs, specifically mentioning the cumbersome nature of the Section 8 housing voucher program. He argued that excessive regulations hinder construction efforts and contribute to rising housing costs. Furthermore, he indicated a willingness to collaborate with state governments to alleviate their regulatory burdens.
The housing sector is also grappling with rising material costs, a challenge Turner acknowledged but did not specifically address regarding President Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian lumber. Recently, the National Association of Homebuilders urged the administration to exempt building materials from tariffs, citing their detrimental impact on housing affordability.
Turner’s confirmation has garnered a range of responses from housing organizations. The National Apartment Association and the National Multifamily Housing Council expressed their support, stating that his background in rental housing and community development positions him well for the role. Former HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan also voiced his eagerness to work with Turner on the pressing issues he outlined during the confirmation process.
As Turner steps into his new position, he faces the dual challenge of addressing immediate housing crises while navigating the complex political landscape of federal funding and regulations. The coming months will be critical as he seeks to implement strategies that can effectively respond to the urgent needs of American communities.