By a vote of 58 to 41, the Senate last Thursday confirmed retired neurosurgeon and former Republican presidential candidate Dr. Ben Carson as the next Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

Voicing his support for the nominee from the Senate floor, Senate Banking Committee Chairman Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) said, “I look forward to having a strong partner at HUD” to help reduce homelessness among America’s veterans, reform public housing and expand access to financing for rural affordable housing projects.

NH&RA President & CEO Peter Bell issued the following statement: “The National Housing & Rehabilitation Association congratulates Dr. Ben Carson on his confirmation to serve as the 17th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. His lifelong commitment to improving the well-being of children and families offers Secretary Carson a unique perspective on the housing programs he will oversee in his new position. We look forward to working with the Secretary and his new leadership team in support of multifamily programs.”

Secretary Carson’s initial plans include a listening tour to various HUD field offices, beginning in hometown Detroit. The Trump Administration must still nominate a Deputy Assistant Secretary for Housing, who will serve as Secretary Carson’s second in command.