Key Takeaways:
– Donald Trump’s nominee for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is Scott Turner.
– Turner has a track record of voting against initiatives to provide affordable housing and assist the homeless.
– Turner’s skepticism of government intervention in poverty could potentially impact millions of poor, elderly, and disabled citizens who rely on HUD support.
– Despite the controversy, some colleagues believe Turner will strive to benefit those in need whilst in office.
Trump’s Pick for HUD
Scott Turner, selected by Donald Trump to run the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is noted for resisting initiatives he may soon administer. As a member of the Texas House of Representatives, Turner voted against measures to establish budget-friendly apartments and to assist impoverished tenants and the homeless.
His Voting Record
In his legislative career, Turner endorsed a proposal allowing landlords to reject those who received federal housing aid. He voted against the expansion of affordable rental housing and opposed funding for public-private alliances to support homeless individuals. Additionally, Turner struck down two bills proposing studies on homelessness, particularly among young individuals and veterans.
These decisions reflect Turner’s skepticism towards government attempts to address poverty. On an occasion, he even agreed with an interviewer who suggested that government aid amplifies the problem of poverty by fostering dependence on state handouts, sparking controversy.
Effects on Vulnerable Populations
Such beliefs might seem contradictory to HUD’s role, a large federal agency shielding millions of America’s less fortunate, elderly, and disabled residents from homelessness. With a discretionary budget of $72 billion every year, HUD extends rental aid to around 2 million families, manages the nation’s 800,000 public housing units, combats housing discrimination and segregation, and offers support to over 650,000 homeless individuals.
Critics assert that if Turner’s history suggests his future management of HUD, the individuals struggling the most with housing might bear the brunt. Researchers and advocates argue that Turner may not align with HUD’s core values, leading to potential increases in homelessness and further issues for the poor.
Views from Colleagues and Critics
Still, some peers, including Democratic Texas House member Richard Peña Raymond, hold a more hopeful perspective on Turner’s likely stewardship of HUD. Raymond expressed his belief that Turner would attempt to aid people and excel in the role.
However, critics suggest that Turner’s directives could potentially upend progressive housing policies, particularly if his previous views shape policy. Detractors argue it’s because he is not aligned with the values they believe HUD should uphold.
Turner has not publicly responded to those inquiries, and the Trump team has yet to comment. Despite the lack of public attention on him, his actions, based on legislative records and public talks, suggest an unclear future for HUD under his potential leadership.
Reflecting on Turner’s Public Life
Turner’s political career took root in his post-football life. After playing for the National Football League, he transitioned to politics, interning for California representative Duncan Hunter. In 2012, Turner dictated his stance as a highly conservative member in Texas’ state House of Representatives.
Here, Turner solidified his stance as a deeply conservative member, opposing many policies seen by some as necessary interventions into the housing market. This has included his opposition to support mechanisms for foreclosure prevention programs and policies to aid public housing authorities.
From his political beginnings, he has made various decisions that create questions about what his potential tenure at HUD may look like, leaving observers divided and intrigued about what lies ahead for HUD and its many beneficiaries.