Senate Banking Committee advances HUD nominee amid housing crisis concerns

The Senate Banking Committee has moved forward with the nomination of Scott Turner as Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by a narrow vote of 13-11. The committee's chairman, Tim Scott (R-S.C.), emphasized Turner's qualifications and shared vision for tackling the housing crisis in his remarks before the vote.

Chairman Scott stated, “I urge my Republican and Democrat colleagues on this committee to advance Scott Turner’s nomination to the Senate Floor. He is the solution we have been looking for to usher in the golden era of homeownership.” He further highlighted Turner's past achievements, including his work as a state legislator in Texas and his leadership role in the White House initiative on Opportunity Zones.

Scott criticized current policies under President Biden's administration, stating that HUD's spending has increased while homelessness has risen significantly. He noted that since 2020, homelessness is up by 33 percent according to HUD surveys. Despite substantial subsidies and expenditures, he argued that little progress has been made.

Turner is expected to focus on increasing housing availability across various types such as single-family homes, apartments, condos, duplexes, and manufactured housing. Chairman Scott expressed confidence in Turner's ability to bring innovative solutions and collaborate on initiatives like ROAD to Housing legislation.

During Turner's tenure at the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, over $50 billion was invested into majority minority communities with minimal gentrification effects. Chairman Scott underscored that affordable housing issues transcend political affiliations and are crucial for millions struggling with basic living expenses.

In conclusion, Chairman Scott reiterated his call for bipartisan support: “Struggling to pay the rent is not a Republican or Democrat issue... For the millions of Americans who feel forgotten and left behind—you no longer have to carry that burden alone.”