S
cott Turner, the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is tackling housing issues with a significantly reduced budget. Since President Trump's inauguration in February, federal agencies have undergone significant changes, including major cuts to HUD programs. Turner, a former NFL player and state representative, has vowed to reshape HUD by focusing on private sector partnerships.
Turner's background suggests he will prioritize faith-based and nonprofit institutions in addressing homelessness. In an interview with Decision magazine, he stated that the government needs to work more closely with these organizations to help vulnerable populations. He emphasized that the federal government is not the primary solution but rather a facilitator of change.
Under Turner's leadership, HUD is expected to undergo significant changes, including major cuts to its budget and programs. Trump's proposed budget would eliminate $33.6 billion from HUD's funding, with rental assistance programs taking the biggest hit. Turner has promised to maximize the remaining budget and focus on serving vulnerable populations.
Turner believes that work restores dignity and encourages people to become self-sufficient. In an opinion piece in The New York Times, he argued that able-bodied adults receiving benefits should be required to work or participate in job training for at least 20 hours a week. He sees this as a way to promote common sense compassion and encourage people to work towards a better life.
Before entering politics, Turner played nine seasons in the NFL and has been guided by his Christian faith throughout his life. As an associate pastor and member of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Texas, he believes that his path to becoming HUD secretary was divinely ordained.
