Scott Turner, previously designated to enhance investments in distressed areas under President Trump, has secured confirmation as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with a Senate vote of 55-44. Prior to this role, Turner had a career in professional football and served as a Texas State Representative, along with holding a position as the chief visionary officer at JPI, a multifamily housing developer.

During his confirmation hearing, Turner criticized HUD for failing in its core mission, citing high homelessness rates and a scarcity of affordable housing. He expressed intentions to evaluate all HUD programs for efficacy, despite refraining from proposing specific solutions during the hearing. Turner pushed back on the notion that increased federal funding was the answer, emphasizing that current HUD funding levels are substantial yet inadequate.

While Turner did not disclose his stance on potential agency budget reductions, he emphasized the need to streamline HUD programs, specifically mentioning the Section 8 housing voucher program and regulatory challenges hindering housing construction. Turner’s reluctance to comment on Trump’s plan to raise tariffs on Canadian lumber was noted, with industry groups like the National Association of Homebuilders advocating for tariff exemptions on building materials to preserve housing affordability.

Various housing organizations, including the National Apartment Association and the National Multifamily Housing Council, expressed support for Turner’s appointment, citing his expertise in rental housing and community development. Former HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan and the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment also extended their readiness to collaborate with Turner on shared goals of fostering thriving communities with affordable housing. Despite positive sentiments, concerns linger over potential disruptions in federal payments for housing and community development programs under the current administration.