The U.S. Senate on February 5 confirmed Scott Turner to be secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Turner, a former NFL player, previously served in the White House during President Trump’s first term.

The Senate voted 55-44 to confirm the HUD secretary, with just two Democrats voting in favor of the confirmation. Democrats raised questions during the confirmation process because Secretary Turner’s FBI background had not been completed.

Secretary Turner will immediately take the helm at HUD, which has a $70 billion budget and nearly 8,000 employees. During his confirmation hearing in January, Secretary Turner highlighted the need for more housing and emphasized reductions in regulations. The Secretary has also spoken publicly about leveraging tax code-based tools like Opportunity Zones to invest in housing, as opposed to more direct public subsidy, which LeadingAge members rely on.

LeadingAge congratulates Secretary Turner on his confirmation, and we look forward to working together to advance affordable housing solutions for older adults across the country. Our top priorities for HUD in 2025 include expanding the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program, HUD’s flagship senior housing initiative; improving and preserving rental assistance programs for older adults; and increasing service coordination programs throughout affordable senior housing.