The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs published remarks by Chairman Tim Scott following the Senate’s 55-44 vote to confirm Scott Turner as Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Scott framed the confirmation around addressing housing affordability and homelessness, and said he intends to work with Turner on “commonsense housing solutions” and reducing bureaucratic red tape. In his floor speech, Scott cited an 18% year-on-year increase in homelessness to nearly 772,000 people, and pointed to mortgage rates rising 150% and rents increasing 20% during President Biden’s tenure. He highlighted Turner’s prior leadership implementing Opportunity Zones through the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, describing over USD 50bn of private-sector capital directed into distressed communities and a gentrification rate of less than 5%, and said targeted reforms are needed across segments of the U.S. housing market.
U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs 2025-02-05
U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs chair applauds 55-44 confirmation of Scott Turner as HUD Secretary
The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs confirmed Scott Turner as Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Chairman Tim Scott emphasized addressing housing affordability and homelessness, noting an 18% increase in homelessness and rising mortgage and rent rates. He advocated for commonsense housing solutions and reduced bureaucratic red tape. Turner's leadership in Opportunity Zones was noted for directing over USD 50bn into distressed communities with minimal gentrification.