Retired neurosurgeon and GOP presidential candidate Ben Carson has reportedly accepted President-elect Donald Trump’s offer to become the next secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
“I am thrilled to nominate Dr. Ben Carson as our next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development,” Trump announced via Twitter and Facebook earlier today. “Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities.”
“We have talked at length about my urban renewal agenda and our message of economic revival, very much including our inner cities,” Trump added. “Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is part of ensuring that this is a presidency representing all Americans. He is a tough competitor and never gives up.”
Reports had been circulating for the past several weeks that the post might be offered to Carson and that he would accept the role; however, there was no official word from the retired neurosurgeon until today.
“I am honored to accept the opportunity to serve our country in the Trump administration,” Carson tweeted on Monday.
So far, reactions to Carson’s nomination have run the gamut, with some saying that his only real qualification is that he “lives in a house,” while others say that his work ethic, honesty and integrity make him a great choice for the position.
In a statement, David H. Stevens, president and CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), congratulated Carson on being nominated as the next Secretary of HUD.
“Housing is one of the largest contributors to the health and success of the overall economy, and as such, we must continue to recognize its significance,” Stevens said. “MBA looks forward to working with Dr. Carson in helping to build out a well-rounded team of housing experts, with a deep technical understanding of the issues, at HUD, FHA and Ginnie Mae. MBA wishes Dr. Carson and the rest of the administration success as they get ready to embark upon these next four years.”
Prior to Carson being selected for the position, rumors swirled that Pam Patenaude, who currently serves as the president of the J. Ronald Terwilliger Foundation for Housing America’s Families, would be taking the top position at HUD.
Others thought the post would be offered to Robert Woodson, who runs the Center for Neighborhood Enterprise in Washington, D.C.